FAST26: Austin | Main Stage Schedule

Bruce Hoffman is a registered nurse, paramedic, and educational leader with graduate degrees in nursing, health professions education, and advanced practice. His professional interests include acute care cardiology, critical care transport, servant leadership, adaptive education, and mobile healthcare simulation.

Bruce is passionate about inspiring others to think differently, lead with integrity, and create positive change through education and service. He is appointed as full-time faculty at American International College and works part-time as a critical care transport nurse for Baystate Health. He is a senior educator for FlightBridgeED and a regular speaker at a variety of specialty conferences. Bruce holds board of director positions for Simulation in Motion-Montana and the Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc. He lives in North Central Connecticut with his wife Stephanie, their three children — Ava Mae, Addy Lue, and Jackson Lee — and their furry friends: Bella, Stella, and Ella (a Boston Terrier and two Great Danes).

Bio pending

It’s hard to write a short bio about the guy who started this whole thing, right? Let me try to hit the highlights. Eric Bauer is the CEO and co-founder of FlightBridgeED. When critical care transport medicine was shrouded in mystery, and critical care transport education was lacking in many areas, Eric walked into the darkness and turned on the lights. More than a decade later, Eric’s dedication to our industry continues to open doors, advance the practice, and bring about a positive change that helps responders and providers of all types provide better patient outcomes. He was the first to demystify mechanical ventilation for transport providers – a curriculum that has become the award-winning foundation of in-the-field ventilator management. Speaking of awards, Eric and his work at FlightBridgeED has won multiple awards, most recently being the only Paramedic to be given the title of Fellow of the Academy of Air and Surface Transport Nurses (FAASTN). We could go on, but this would get lengthy. Suffice it to say that Eric’s talks at FAST have always been a highlight of the conference, or any conference for that matter! Eric is an advocate and mentor to so many in the industry. He loves meeting, talking with, and helping nurses and paramedics directly. His email inbox is an open door, and FAST25 allows Eric to meet with the people in the industry he loves face-to-face. The only direction we were given for this bio from Eric was that he wanted to invite you to FAST25 personally! We can’t wait to see you there!

Adam Hart is a seasoned Critical Care Flight Paramedic with over 14 years of frontline experience in various high-stakes emergency medical services. A decorated veteran of the United States Coast Guard, Adam served in Southeast Alaska conducting complex medevac missions and large-scale search and rescue operations in one of the most challenging environments in North America. He is a recipient of a Sikorsky Rescue Award. With over a decade of experience as a Firefighter-Paramedic, Adam has developed a keen expertise in incident command, mass casualty response, and tactical rescue. His leadership and skill were formally recognized with a citation for bravery from the Governor of Massachusetts after a dangerous and complex water rescue involving multiple patients. Simultaneously, Adam continued to share his deep background and experience with Paramedic students as an Adjunct professor. Investing in the future of EMS by delivering education and skills tailored to each student. From didactic lecture to high fidelity simulation, he integrates evidence-based practice with real-world experience to ensure each student is prepared for the reality of front-line Emergency Medical Services. Adam holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration, blending field experience with strategic insight. Known for his calm under pressure and patient-centered approach, Adam is deeply committed to mission success, clinical excellence, and leading his team with integrity in the most critical moments.

Allen C. Wolfe Jr., MSN, CFRN, CTRN, TCRN, is a nationally recognized leader in transport nursing with over 35 years of nursing experience, including 29 years in critical care transport by air and ground. He began his volunteer service with BCEN in 2009, has served on its board since 2015, and became board chair in 2024. He also serves on BCEN’s CFRN/CTRN Exam Construction Review Committee.

Allen is Senior Director of Clinical Education at Life Link III and previously directed clinical education at Air Methods, overseeing training for 1,300 clinicians at 160 helicopter bases. His earlier career includes leadership and clinical roles with MedSTAR and Arlington Hospital Center.

A leading U.S. authority on prehospital LVAD management, Allen is widely published, a national speaker, and co-editor of Patient Transport: Principles & Practice (6th ed.). He holds multiple BCEN certifications and has received numerous industry honors, including the AAMS Marriott-Carlson Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a past president of ASTNA and a member of the inaugural Academy of Air & Surface Transport Nurses. Allen holds BSN and MSN degrees and a Cornell University Diversity and Inclusion Certificate.

Bio Pending

Bobby O’Donnell is a critical care flight paramedic with Boston MedFlight with over a decade of EMS experience. An accomplished author, his book, Running Wild: A Quest for Healing Across Seven Continents, describes his journey around the world in the wake of the Boston Marathon Bombing. The story articulates the importance of how we talk about and manage our mental health in both the personal and professional setting, aiming to decrease stigma through discussion. Bobby has presented on topics involving mental health, critical care medicine, and human factors around the United States and abroad. In addition to speaking and clinical work, he is a subject matter expert with the IBSC, aiding in their development of the Wilderness Paramedic Certification (WP-C) and now continuing to item write for both that and the FP-C exam. Bobby spends most of his free time running and skiing in the White Mountains of New Hampshire with his wife.”

Dr. Elizabeth Garchar, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and fellowship-trained maternal-fetal medicine specialist. A native of Santa Fe, New Mexico, she completed her undergraduate studies in anthropology at the University of New Mexico (UNM) before entering UNM\’s prestigious combined BA/MD program. She earned her medical degree in 2016, followed by a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, and a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine, all at UNM. Outside of her professional responsibilities, she enjoys spending time with her husband, daughters, and their dog, engaging in activities such as running, reading, and exploring new cuisines.

Geoff is one of our best friends and colleagues from way up north in Canada. He has been an active flight paramedic for the past eight years and is the founder and lead instructor of Master Your Medics (https://masteryourmedics.com). Part of the reason he created Master Your Medics is because he remembers going through paramedic school and trying to teach himself by reading textbooks repeatedly. He was frustrated that I was only making progress in small steps, understanding just the surface of medicine – similar to why we created FlightBridgeED and FAST. Seven years ago, Geoff became committed to teaching students WHY we do the things we do. He wanted to teach EMTs and Paramedics to dig below the surface of medicine and truly understand it. He has taught thousands of EMS students at several EMS colleges and has provided consultation to other educators to help improve their courses. We are excited to bring Geoff Murphy to the main stage and our Workshop offerings.

Jacob Miller is a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Paramedic with a background in flight, critical care transport, and emergency nursing. Jacob received his Master of Science in acute care from the University of Maryland, a post-master’s certificate in advanced transport nursing from Case Western Reserve University, and his Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Cincinnati. Jacob is on the Board of Directors of the Air & Surface Transport Nurses Association, co-chairs the EMS Special Interest Group with the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioners, and is a member of the Emergency Nurses Association’s EMS Advisory Council and the National Association of EMS Physicians’ Committee on Prehospital Advanced Practice Providers. In recognition of his contributions to the field of EMS and critical care transport medicine, Jacob was recognized as one of ENA Connection’s “20 under 40” in 2023 and has been named a Fellow of the Academy of Emergency Nursing and a Fellow of the Academy of Emergency Medical Services.

James Boomhower, MS(c), FP-C, NR-P, C- NPT, CCISM, has been involved in EMS for over 20 years in various health systems throughout New England. He currently functions as a critical care transport specialist and paramedic, lead peer support director with Boston Medflight of Bedford, Massachusetts, and crisis and peer supporter for the ECHO FAST team and the state of RI CISM team. His desire to bring mental health awareness to the EMS arena has spurred him to create the Stay Fit 4 Duty platform and work to implement a peer support program in his workplace. James is working to realize his goal of promoting recognition, management, and acceptance of acute stress in EMS providers worldwide, alongside obtaining licensure as a professional licensed counselor.

Jason is the Senior Vice-President of Field Operations for Apollo MedFlight. His career of serving others for 25 years started in the fire service in 1999 as a volunteer firefighter, and he joined the air medical industry in 2005 as a flight paramedic. Still, he will tell you some of his best lessons learned, and the most fun was having served as a law enforcement officer. Jason obtained his paramedic education from Northwest Shoals Community College, a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Bethel University, and a Master of Business Administration Degree specializing in Data Analytics from Louisiana State University – Shreveport. Jason has been an industry presenter for multiple conferences across various leadership and clinical care topics, a published educator and reviewer, and received the 2017 Tim Hynes Award.

Dr. Jean-François Couture, MD, CCFP (EM), is COO and Director of adult content for Paratus – EZResus. He worked exclusively in critical care, including the ICU, for the first 10 years of his career and now concentrates his practice in emergency medicine. After completing a fellowship in critical care through the Resuscitation Leadership Academy, he has maintained an interest in teaching, simulation, quality assessment, and, of course, the logistics of resuscitation.

Dr. Jeff Jarvis is the chief medical officer and system medical director for the Metropolitan Area EMS Authority in Fort Worth, Texas, and an associate medical director for FlightBridgeED. He hosts The EMS Lighthouse Project Podcast, which reviews the scientific evidence guiding our EMS practice. Dr. Jarvis began his career in EMS over 30 years ago and remains a licensed paramedic today. His research interests include airway management and clinical performance measures. He is a proud father to two wonderful kids, a husband of 33 years, and a loyal Aggie.

Dr. James (Jim) DuCanto is a practicing Anesthesiologist at multiple practice locations in the Advocate Aurora Health Care system. He has practiced for 28 years in the Aurora Healthcare hospital system.

Through the phenomenon of FOAMed (Free Open Access Medical Education), he has collaborated with Emergency Medicine, Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Prehospital and Retrieval Medical educators worldwide. Through his collaborations with colleagues in these diverse specialties, he has produced innovations related to Prehospital, Emergency Medicine and Critical Care airway management with the invention of a specialized rigid suction catheter (the “SSCOR DuCanto Suction Catheter”) as well as techniques to manage the massively soiled airway (the “SALAD” Technique), and a simulator to demonstrate and practice the SALAD technique (the Nasco Life/form® S.A.L.A.D. Simulator).

Melody Bishop (B.Sc.) is a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and a Certified Clinical Anaesthesia Assistant (CCAA). She has worked in diverse areas of critical care medicine for over 15 years with a special focus on intensive care, prehospital and critical care transport, and the operating room. Her love for complex medical challenges brought her to the flight medicine world, where she worked as an emergency first responder flying into remote communities in Northern Canada. In her roles as a Clinical Educator for Ornge and a college professor, she has been involved in teaching and educating a wide range of medical professionals over the last decade at the post-secondary, post-graduate, and professional level—specializing in Critical Care RN and paramedical mechanical ventilation and respiratory education. Her mission as a teacher is to simplify the “scary” topic of ventilation and respiratory physiology and present it to all medical professionals in an easy-to-understand and approachable way. Follow Melody’s Instagram (@melodybishop_rt) for free ventilation and respiratory education.

Dr. Michael Lauria is a former U.S. Air Force Pararescueman and experienced Critical Care/Flight Paramedic who now serves as an Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Attending Physician. He is an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at the University of Washington, where he also holds the role of Associate Medical Director and actively flies as a Flight Physician with UW’s Airlift Northwest. In addition, he is the Chief Medical Director for FlightBridgeED. His academic interests focus on Human Factors, Engineering Psychology, and optimizing human performance during the resuscitation of critically ill or injured patients.

Mike Verkest has diverse work experience in the field of emergency medical services. Mike began his career in 1994 as an EMS Training Officer at American Medical Response, where he worked for over 20 years. In 2008, he transitioned to the role of EMS Licensing Officer at the Oregon Health Authority, where he served for 14 years. In 2015, Mike joined FlightBridgeED, LLC as the Media Production Manager, responsible for managing podcast production and staying up to date with technology. In 2016, he joined Clackamas Fire District #1 as a Captain in the Medical Services Division, a role he held for six years. Mike also has experience as an Independent Business Owner at FireDog Productions, specializing in video, podcast, and voiceover services. Mike has demonstrated expertise in content development, media production, leadership, and EMS training. Mike is co-host of The EMS Show with Dr. Ritu Sahni. Available on all podcast platforms.

Mike Verkest completed an Associate’s Degree in Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic) at Rogue Community College from 1999 to 2001. Mike is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) degree in Business Administration, Management, and Operations at Eastern Oregon University. In addition to his academic achievements, Mike has obtained certifications, including Certification in Neonatal Pediatric Transport (C-NPT), Critical Care Paramedic Certification (CCP-C), and Flight Paramedic Certification (FP-C) from various institutions.

Nicole King, RN, BSN, CFRN, CCRN, CEN, C-NPT, EMT-B, is a nurse with a decade of dedication in emergency, pediatric, neonatal, and critical care. Currently thriving as a Critical Care Transport Nurse for Boston MedFlight, Nicole’s expertise is deeply rooted in diverse and challenging healthcare environments.

With a B.S. in Nursing from MCPHS University and a unique background in Youth, Adult, and Family Services from Purdue University, Nicole brings a holistic perspective to her nursing practice. At Boston MedFlight, Nicole’s role is pivotal in providing top-tier care during critical transport situations, demonstrating her adaptability and proficiency in high-pressure scenarios.

Dr. Peter Antevy, the innovator of the Handtevy Pediatric Resuscitation System, is a nationally recognized lecturer and expert in the field of pre-hospital pediatrics. He serves as the EMS Medical Director for Davie Fire-Rescue, Coral Springs Fire Department, Southwest Ranches Fire Rescue and MCT Express, Associate Medical Director for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, Miramar Fire Rescue and Seminole Tribe Fire Rescue, and is an Associate Medical Director for FlightBridgeED.

Dr. Bryant obtained his medical degree from the University of Utah School of Medicine and completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at the University of Arizona. He has also completed additional training in Critical Care Medicine and is board-certified in both Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Medicine.

Shaylah has dedicated 13 years to Emergency Medical Services and has been a Registered Nurse since 2015, specializing in critical care and emergency settings. Since 2018, she has worked as a flight clinician, combining her passion for acute patient care with aviation. Shaylah enjoys creative and educational roles, utilizing social media to promote accessible information and mentorship. She actively contributes to the social media committee for the Air & Surface Transport Nurses Association (ASTNA) and co-hosts their podcast, Runways & Roadways. In her leisure time, Shaylah enjoys fly fishing and snowboarding.

William Heuser, PharmD, BCCCP, MS, EMT-P, FP-C is a clinical critical care pharmacist, course director/clinical professor of pharmacology, clinical toxicologist, and certified flight paramedic/firefighter. William has presented at several national conferences across the United States and has extensive research experience in resuscitative medicine, having published several articles in peer-reviewed journals. As a clinical toxicologist at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research at Northwell Health, his research focuses on the acute resuscitation of critically ill and dying patients. His research focuses on developing novel pharmacological cocktails coupled with emergency cardiopulmonary bypass to save the lives of patients who fail traditional advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) treatment.