A Career of Connection and Impact: Reflecting on Longstanding Service in EMSC

After more than a decade of dedicated service advancing Pediatric Readiness across multiple states and roles, Sam Vance is stepping away from his current position to begin a new chapter, returning to his home state of Missouri to take on a state-level leadership role within the EMS office. Vance is no stranger to the world of EMSC; for more than 13 years, he has served in a wide range of capacities, from participating on advisory committees as a state EMS official to managing the Texas program and later supporting states through the EMSC Innovation and Improvement Center before returning to Texas. Known for his steady presence, collaborative spirit, and long-term commitment to building relationships that move systems forward, Vance has consistently demonstrated a dedication to expanding EMSC priorities. As he prepares for this transition, we sat down with Sam to reflect on his time with EMSC, the progress made along the way, and the relationships that shaped his journey.

When asked to reflect on his time with EMSC, and what accomplishments he feels most proud of, Vance tells us that it is the groundwork that has recently begun to pay off in meaningful, statewide change. Over the past year, Pediatric Readiness guidelines were successfully incorporated into Texas trauma rules, an important milestone that elevates pediatric care expectations across hospitals. As part of these changes, trauma centers are now required to complete the National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP) Assessment annually and meet several pediatric-specific requirements.

“It’s really about starting to move the needle,” he shared. “Texas is a big state, and for a long time, many people didn’t know who we [EMSC] were—at least on the hospital side. Now, they’re starting to.”

That visibility didn’t happen by accident, or overnight. It came from years of intentional engagement at the state level—something he emphasizes strongly when offering advice to new colleagues entering EMSC state partnership work.

“This role can be tough, especially if you’re new or don’t have a background in EMS or hospital systems,” he explained, “It’s even harder if you work out of a university versus a state office.You have to get involved at the state level and make those connections.”

Even as a self-described introvert, Vance says he made it a personal goal at every meeting he attended to introduce himself to at least three new people, individuals who could become partners, collaborators, or champions for the work, and to gain a spot on the agenda of other meetings where he could highlight the work of the Texas EMSC program.

One of the ways Vance accomplished this was by consistently attending state EMS and trauma advisory council meetings, participating in all of the subcommittees, and eventually through those connections EMSC gradually earned a seat at the table. Today, EMSC is on the agenda of nearly every major committee in Texas, including stroke committees, where the team helped develop pediatric stroke protocols for the state.

“These relationships don’t happen overnight,” he noted. “The people who are successful in this role are the ones who stick with it. They build networks over time and learn how to use the strengths and resources of people around you to make things happen—learn their strengths, and then exploit them!” he says jokingly.

While technology allows for some collaboration to happen remotely, he emphasized the continued importance of in-person engagement. “Being onsite creates space for one-on-one conversations and deeper relationship-building that simply can’t be replicated virtually.”

As Vance looks ahead to the next chapter, what he says he will miss most is (not surprisingly) the people. “I’ve been fortunate to work with some really incredible individuals—the leaders of pediatric medicine across the country. I’ll miss that community.”

Vance has made a lasting impact on the EMSC community. One defined by connection, commitment, and systems change. Proof that steady relationship-building and long-term vision can truly move the needle for pediatric emergency care.

Cheers to your next chapter, Sam, and thanks for all your time with EMSC—something tells us we’ll still see you around!