Kim Brackney, BSN, RN, PM, District EMS Manager for Pre-Hospital Services at Memorial Healthcare System, began her career as a successful salon owner before making a life-changing transition into emergency medicine. Driven by a passion for helping others and serving her community, she spent more than 20 years as a firefighter/paramedic before advancing into nursing and EMS leadership.

Now working alongside EMS and clinical teams across the system, Brackney says one of the most meaningful aspects of her role is supporting first responders after difficult calls, when the emotional impact often remains long after patient care is complete. Through an open-door approach built on shared experience, she strives to create an environment where crews feel supported, understood and never alone.

“What inspires me daily is simple,” Brackney said. “Taking care of the people who dedicate themselves to taking care of others.”