Dan Kramer

MPA, LP, NRP

CEO/Program Director

My name is Dan Kramer, and I currently serve as the Executive Director for the State Firefighters and Fire Marshals Association of Texas. In my previous roles, I have been deeply involved in the emergency management and firefighting industries. I was the Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Schertz, the Deputy Fire Chief for Hays County ESD #3, and the City of Windcrest's Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator. I also contribute to the field as an educator for the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service and San Antonio College.

My career has spanned various industries, which has equipped me with a diverse skill set and a strong work ethic. I am adept at applying the wealth of experience I have gained to real-world situations. I hold a Master's in Public Administration with an emphasis on Emergency Management (December 2019) from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX, a Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management Administration (May 2017) from West Texas A&M University in Canyon, TX, and my Associate's in Fire Protection Technologies (May 2016) from Austin Community College in Austin, TX. I am pursuing my Ph.D. in Fire and Emergency Management from Oklahoma State University.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending quality time with my beautiful wife and three incredible children. They are my constant source of inspiration and motivation. Texas Rescue Med will allow me to spend more time with my family and focus my efforts at home rather than at the office.

Sarah Kramer

MBA

COO/Admissions

As a seasoned professional, I hold a diverse range of significant roles. I am an account executive for a local home health and hospice company, where I oversee relationship-building within the healthcare community. Additionally, I serve as the Chief Operations Officer of Texas Rescue Med. This position empowers me to help people focus on their goals and succeed in their chosen EMS careers. I also manage a thriving marketing firm that aims to aid small businesses in various marketing strategies. My commitment to continuous learning is evident as I pursue my Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, intending to introduce innovative learning methodologies to Texas Rescue Med.

My academic journey has been a catalyst for my professional success. I completed my Master’s in Business Administration, specializing in Healthcare Administration, from the University of Texas-Tyler in December 2015. This degree has been instrumental in gaining a better knowledge of business and how it applies to the healthcare market. Before that, I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Texas State University in May 2010. These qualifications have provided me with a solid foundation in both business and healthcare.

Outside of my professional life, I find fulfillment in various activities. I am a proud parent to three wonderful children; balancing my career with quality time with them is a priority. I also have a passion for reading, gardening, and exploring my creative side through photography. These interests provide me with a much-needed break from work and contribute to my personal growth and well-being, which in turn enhances my professional performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Emergency Medical Services training refers to the education and preparation provided to individuals to equip them with the necessary skills to respond to medical emergencies. This training includes a range of techniques from basic first aid and CPR to more advanced procedures like handling trauma cases, administering medications, and using emergency equipment. EMS training is typically categorized into different levels, such as Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced EMT (AEMT), and Paramedic.

  • The duration of EMS training depends on the level of certification. An EMR course might only take a few days to a couple of weeks. EMT basic training usually requires about 120 to 150 hours, which often translates to a few months of part-time study. Advanced EMT training could add another 300-400 hours beyond the basic EMT level. Paramedic training is the most extensive, often requiring 1,200 to 1,800 hours of training, which can take from six months to two years to complete, depending on the program's intensity and the student's schedule.

  • Prerequisites vary by program and level of EMS training. Here at Texas Rescue Med, for EMT basic training, you must be at least 18 years old (17 years old with parental consent), have a high school diploma or GED, and be physically able to perform the duties required. We also need a background check, immunizations, a 10-panel drug screen, pre-coursework, and a CPR certification. A current EMT certification is required for higher levels of EMS training, such as AEMT or Paramedic.

  • EMS training covers a wide range of medical and trauma-related skills. This includes patient assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) use, oxygen therapy, bandaging and splinting, spinal immobilization, childbirth, management of bleeding, handling of infectious diseases, and administration of certain medications. Advanced training covers more complex skills like intravenous therapy, electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation, and endotracheal intubation.

  • After completing EMS training, you must pass a national or state examination to become certified. The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is the most recognized certifying agency for EMTs and Paramedics. Once you pass the exam, you can apply for state certification or licensure (requirements vary by state). Maintaining certification typically requires continuing education and renewal every two to three years. After becoming certified, you can work in various settings, including ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals, and other emergency service environments.