Patrick Ciardullo, MA, NRP, NCC
Director at Large, NEMSMA
Patrick J. Ciardullo is an EMS executive with more than 23 years of experience spanning clinical operations, quality improvement, training and education, special operations, FTEP, CAAS and CAAHEP accreditation, system-level planning as well as progressive leadership and executive leadership roles.
As Chief of Service and CEO for New Britain EMS, a nonprofit 911 provider serving a
diverse urban population, he is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day leadership of a high-performing EMS system. His work has focused on building a culture that values accountability, professional development, and operational excellence.
A core focus of his leadership has been the development of a robust, integrated quality
improvement program. He built this system from the ground up to ensure that clinical performance, system efficiency, and patient experience are reviewed systematically and used to guide improvement efforts. He introduced the principles of high reliability organizations and crew resource management into clinical practices, reinforcing the idea that safety, communication, and teamwork are not optional but foundational. These efforts have not only elevated care standards but also fostered shared responsibility and learning throughout the agency.
Patrick is a strong believer in the practice of Just Culture. He has worked to shift internal
mindsets from one of blame to one of accountability and growth-where errors are seen as opportunities to strengthen systems and support providers. This philosophy informs how NBEMS trains, supervises, and reviews performance, becoming central to its leadership model.
Staff development has been another cornerstone of his work. He led the creation and expansion of NBEMS’s internal training academy, including a 6,500-square-foot simulation center that supports onboarding, continuing education, and leadership development. Patrick believes strongly in the relationship between education and quality. As an EMS educator and instructor he has served as director and dean for a regional paramedic education consortium and overseen the CAAHEP accreditation processes.
Patrick holds a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and remains a Nationally Registered Paramedic licensed in the state of Connecticut. Patrick is a credentialed Chief EMS Officer through CPSE.
In addition to his EMS work, Patrick is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and
National Certified Counselor, working as a therapist as well. His clinical work informs his approach to leadership, particularly in areas of wellness, resilience, and organizational dynamics. He continues to provide 24/7 executive coverage and plays an active role in state and regional EMS leadership committed to advancing EMS through strong leadership, clear standards, and a sustained focus on culture – work he continues through service on the National EMS Management Association Board of Directors.