National Emergency Wildland Service institute

The People Behind Our Courses

Our team of educators and authors is dedicated to paying it forward by providing education with a purpose. Members of the NEWSI team have spent their careers working in many different EMS systems, all-hazard environments, and wilderness settings. They are all passionate about mentoring, educating, and making sure first responders are equipped to face every challenge with confidence.
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Dave Branfman

Attorney and Author

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Evelyn Hallford

Founder and President

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Stephanie Benjamin

Medical Director, EMP

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Nicole Garrett

CHT & Safety Director, Instructor

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Donnie Laurent

Capitan Paramedic

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Shawn Fernandes

Firefighter, Capitan Paramedic

A word from our instructors

Having online education is a huge advantage for those of us on shift. As an instructor, my content is available for use when the students are able to attend CE. It allows them to be ready to learn on their schedule not when the class is held. No need to get time off of shift to attend, just get to the computer when you are ready.
Capitan Paramedic, Donnie Laurent
My name is Shawn Fernandes, and I have worked in the fire-EMS world for over thirty years. If you are like me, CE classes are not your favorite thing to do. I work in a busy system, and sitting in CE classes in the middle of a shift is mind-numbing. NEWSI has made them available online for completion on your own timetable. I also appreciate that the classes are being taught by people on the job, so you get real-life experience carried over into the lessons.
Captain Firefighter Paramedic, Shawn Fernandes
financial support for aspiring EMTs and paramedics

Mike Hudson Memorial Fund

In memory of Mike Hudson, a former Navy Corpsman and a beacon of inspiration in emergency medical training, NEWSI established the Mike Hudson Memorial Fund. Mike's legacy as a frontline hero, a respected paramedic, and a dedicated instructor lives on through this fund. It aims to provide financial support to aspiring EMTs and paramedics, ensuring that Mike’s passion for high-quality education and integrity continues to impact future generations.

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