Last week I watched the Grammy Awards and yes this is a bit of a guilty pleasure where I do enjoy watching many of these award presentations.

During the show I became aware of all the lifetime achievement awards and more  importantly I noticed the way that many of the new artists recognized all the older ones with respect and an understanding of what they did to advance the music industry and the how doors where opened for other music types and media to become main stream.

That got me to thinking on how EMS is very similar and I started wondering how many of us really acknowledge and understand how past EMS professionals have  helped advance the industry and make people more aware of what we do as paramedics and EMT’s.

Now of course we have a long way to go but thinking about EMS professionals like Bryan Bledsoe, Bob Page, Peter Canning and Mike McEvoy who have been plugging away at advancing the EMS profession either by education, advocacy or both over the years, makes me wonder how much new providers understand the effect that these industry experts have had on the profession.

Many Grammy winners will acknowledge the efforts or show great respect when artists of years gone by are recognized for all they have done. Now while some may agree or disagree with certain staples of the EMS crowd. You just can’t help but acknowledge their efforts so far and I am sure that they still have a lot left in them to give and show guidance to upcoming providers.

Just like Ray Charles is recognized for all his work and how he broke barriers and made advances in the music industry. Beyonce also must be acknowledge for her achievements and what she is now bringing to the music industry as well.

EMS is now getting an even stronger voice with Web 2.0 and social media. Many up and coming EMS professionals who are attracting more and more attention with their dedication to EMS and it’s future are taking the reins from  the Bledsoes and Cannings. People like Justin Schorr, Thaddeus Setla, Steve Whitehead and Greg Friese are all in my opinion just a few of the new stars in the EMS world.

There are many more with blogs like this, podcasts and videos who are all trying to have their voices heard and bring EMS to the next level. The best part is with technology continually advancing, the next levels may come faster with more voices being heard. We should be ready for the next level when it comes and be aware that there where many people that made it happen.

We may not publicly thank those that made it happen like Taylor Swift or Mary J. would do for their mentors. But we should think about all the effort that goes into each article, blog post, video and podcast. While there isn’t any big televised award show for EMS, I think we can appreciate the past and continuing efforts of the EMS professionals that work so hard for the EMS industry online and off.

I encourage you to comment on posts and articles. Take part in live podcasts and let your voice be heard as well. Let the people who have a bigger voice help yours get louder. Get into the picture. Together we can all look good on the “red carpet”.