Stronger Together: Frenemies to Friends

For decades, divisions between fire-based and non-municipal EMS providers have slowed progress in many states, but Wisconsin has forged a different path—one built on trust, collaboration, and shared goals.

In 2009, firefighter Jerry Biggart was appointed to the Wisconsin EMS Board with a firm stance: strengthen municipal EMS and curb the growth of private providers. However, as he took a deeper look at the challenges facing EMS across the state, it became clear that both municipal and non-municipal providers needed the same fundamental changes to survive and thrive. Instead of reinforcing old divisions, Biggart took on the challenge of breaking down barriers and building relationships with key stakeholders.

Years later, when Chris Anderson joined the EMS Board, that trust and collaboration accelerated. Today, Wisconsin’s EMS system has made remarkable progress—establishing a strong coalition, increasing revenue, improving patient care, and earning a seat at the table with policymakers.

In this session, Chris Anderson, American Ambulance Association Region 3 Director, and Jerry Biggart, Wisconsin Emergency Medical Services Board Chair, will explore how Wisconsin’s fire and ambulance leaders transformed years of rivalry into a powerful alliance that advances mobile healthcare statewide. Attendees will gain insights into how stakeholder trust, open dialogue, and a unified approach to advocacy can strengthen EMS at the local, state, and national levels. Whether you represent a state ambulance association, fire department, or EMS advocacy group, this session provides a model for building lasting partnerships that drive meaningful change.