Jerry Johnston is a second-generation EMS provider who began his career in 1975. He has been employed by private as well as hospital based EMS Systems. He currently holds the position of EMS Director at Henry County Health Center (HCHC) in Mt. Pleasant, IA; a countywide all-ALS system. In 1998, HCHC EMS was the recipient of NAEMT’s Paramedic Ambulance Service of the Year award. In addition to his duties in Henry County, he also manages a BLS/ALS/Critical Care transport service located in Burlington, Iowa, of which HCHC is part owner.

He holds a BA degree in Business Management and Economics and is a Nationally Registered Paramedic. While his current role is that of EMS administrator, he has held positions of EMT-B, EMT-I, Staff Paramedic, Training Officer, EMT-B Training Program and Continuing Education Coordinator, as well as Paramedic Instructor. He has instructed all levels of EMS providers as well as BLS, ACLS, and PALS. He is a past BLS National Faculty member for AHA.

Jerry serves on a variety of local, state and national organizations and associations. He is a Past President of the Iowa EMS Association and has served on the NAEMT Board of Governors, Executive Council, Board of Directors as well as Treasurer. He was the first chair of NAEMT’s Pediatric Prehospital Care (PPC) Executive Council.

He has presented at numerous regional, state and national EMS conferences. In 2001, Jerry was the recipient of NAEMT's William Klingensmith EMS Administrator of the Year award.