Title: Director
Company: Jefferson County Emergency Medical and Emergency Management Agency (EMS/EMA)
Location: New Market, Tennessee, United States
Joseph “Brad” Phillips Sr., director at Jefferson County Emergency Medical and Emergency Management Agency (EMS/EMA), has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in health care.
With over three decades of experience, Mr. Phillips has built a distinguished career in health care, specializing in emergency medical services, emergency management, educational leadership, government operations, human resources, and tactical paramedicine. Since 2005, he has served as director of the Jefferson County EMA and has been a paramedic with Jefferson County EMS since 1993. Reflecting on his path, he has dedicated 30 years to the Jefferson County EMA, playing a vital role in public safety and emergency response. As director for the past 20 years, he manages the agency’s $6 million annual budget, ensuring resources are optimized to support its mission. Under his leadership, the agency responds to approximately 15,000 emergency calls annually, reflecting its commitment to community service and critical care. In addition to his administrative duties, he serves as a tactical paramedic for the SWAT team, where his expertise is invaluable in high-pressure situations.
Mr. Phillips’ professional journey began as an EMT-IV with Grainger County EMS in 1992, transitioning to Jefferson County EMS in 1993 as a paramedic. His extensive experience includes budgeting, purchasing, emergency protocols, incident management, and tactical operations, demonstrating his comprehensive skill set in emergency management. Laying a strong educational foundation, he completed coursework in prehospital emergency care at Walters State Community College in 1994 and earned his paramedic certification at the same institution. Additionally, he is a member of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians, Tennessee Ambulance Service Association, Emergency Management Association of Tennessee, and Tennessee Region II EMS Directors Association.
Mr. Phillips notes he was initially motivated by a desire to make a difference in people’s lives, and chose emergency services for its direct impact, including being present during critical moments, providing immediate interventions, and often seeing tangible results. This drive to positively influence his community led him to a career in EMS and later into leadership roles. One of his most significant achievements has been meeting the demands of a growing population by strategically expanding services. He has overseen the addition of skilled staff and advanced equipment, culminating in the construction of a $2.1 million state-of-the-art emergency services center in 2011. He also takes pride in fostering the professional growth of his team members, helping them achieve their goals.
In light of his impressive undertakings, Mr. Phillips has received several honors, including Public Servant/EMT of the Year from the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2024, the Administrator of the Year Award from the Tennessee Region II EMS Directors Association in 2010, and the Academic Achievement Award for earning the highest GPA in his paramedic class. He attributes his success to his dedication to public safety, his leadership in emergency management, and his commitment to providing critical services to his community, as well as the unwavering support of trusted individuals in his life, strong family bonds, and his steadfast faith. He also credits his self-confidence for enabling him to overcome obstacles and thrive in adversity. Looking to the future, he envisions mentoring emerging leaders within his organization, preparing them to step into leadership roles
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