Donnie Woodyard Jr
Executive EMS leader and policy strategist specializing in interstate regulation, disaster response, and national security.
Specialties & Interests
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Experienced EMS leader with expertise in system design, regulation, and policy. Led state and national EMS initiatives, modernized licensure frameworks, and advanced workforce mobility through the United States EMS Compact.
Speaker/Public Speaking
Keynote speaker on EMS, technology, innovation, and leadership. Best-selling author of multiple books, engaging audiences with insights on EMS advancement, AI, policy, and the future of emergency healthcare.
Disaster Response
Led complex disaster responses in Sri Lanka and Haiti, managing emergencies, war zones, and large-scale events. Expert in crisis leadership, state disaster planning, emergency coordination, and building resilient healthcare systems.
ABOUT
Donnie Woodyard Jr., MAML, NRP, is a nationally recognized EMS leader with 30+ years of experience as an executive, paramedic, educator, and innovator. He began as a volunteer EMT in high school, earning his paramedic certification at 19 while attending Cedarville University. He later earned degrees from Indiana University, a Master’s in Management & Leadership from Liberty University, and a Certificate in AI for Healthcare from Harvard Medical School. He is completing a Doctorate in Law & Policy, focusing on EMS regulation, interstate compacts, and national security.
Donnie has served as State EMS Director for Louisiana and Colorado, COO of the National Registry of EMTs, and Executive Director of the United States EMS Compact, advancing national EMS policy and clinician mobility.
Internationally, he led EMS system development in Sri Lanka and South Asia and directed large-scale disaster responses in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Bangladesh.
A best-selling author of multiple books, Donnie continues to shape EMS through policy, leadership, and innovation. Beyond EMS, he is a Scuba Dive Master, fixed-wing search-and-rescue pilot, and Squadron Commander in the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary – Civil Air Patrol.
CHDS AFFILIATION
- Executive Leaders Program Alum, 2401
When the history of EMS in the 21st century is written—with all the breathless change it entails—Donnie’s name will be on the list of those who contributed to shaping it. Like Safar, Nagle, Page and Caroline before him, the name Woodyard will undoubtedly take its place in the pantheon of this generation’s EMS thought leaders
–Douglas Wolfberg, JD
HIGHLIGHTS
EMS IN THE UNITED STATES: FRAGMENTED PAST, FUTURE OF OPPORTUNITY
A Definitive Guide to EMS History and Future
This best-selling book explores the fragmented evolution of EMS in the U.S., analyzing the challenges of its development while presenting a compelling vision for the future. It serves as a foundational resource for EMS leaders, policymakers, and clinicians seeking to understand and improve the profession.
LEADERSHIP IN ACTION: THE WISDOM AND STORIES OF EMS INNOVATORS
Essential Lessons from EMS Trailblazers
A collection of insights from some of the most influential figures in EMS, this book highlights leadership journeys, critical decisions, and transformational moments. It provides aspiring EMS leaders with invaluable lessons on navigating challenges, driving innovation, and shaping the future of prehospital care.
THE FUTURE OF EMS: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, TECHNOLOGY, & INNOVATION
AI and Technology’s Role in the Next Era of EMS
This forward-thinking book examines how artificial intelligence, big data, and emerging technologies are revolutionizing emergency medical services. It challenges EMS leaders to embrace innovation and adapt to a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.
UNITED STATES EMS COMPACT
Enhancing EMS Mobility and Readiness Across State Lines: As Executive Director of the United States EMS Compact, Donnie has been instrumental in unifying regulatory frameworks to enable seamless interstate EMS practice. The Compact improves workforce mobility, strengthens disaster response, and ensures consistency in EMS clinician credentialing across 24 states.