Founder & Executive Director

Brad brings over 25 years of boots-on-the-ground EMS experience to the table, shaped by a career that’s spanned street-level 911 response, tactical operations, and leadership development. A former Army combat medic and lifelong paramedic, he’s served in some of the most challenging environments imaginable—always leading from the front and never asking others to do what he hasn’t done himself.

Throughout his career, Brad has held a wide range of instructional, operational, and leadership roles, giving him a well-rounded view of what it takes to thrive in this profession. That perspective led him to launch Saving Ourselves – A First Responder Mental Health Movement, a raw and real initiative built on his own journey through trauma, burnout, and resilience. He’s fiercely committed to changing the way we support the mental health of our responders—not with fluff, but with real tools and honest conversations.

Brad is the founder and driving force behind PIERCE Provisions and The PIERCE Foundation, two organizations built to equip first responders with what they need to serve well and live well. Whether he’s building tactical EMS courses, mentoring new leaders, or speaking on wellness, Brad’s mission stays the same: to build stronger, smarter, and more resilient first responders who can lead from the front—and still make it home.​​​

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Director of Curriculum and Talent Strategy

Annie began her EMS career in 2015 as an EMT, quickly earning her Paramedic certification in 2017. Driven, focused, and grounded in service, she steadily rose through the ranks—holding leadership roles including Field Training Officer, Lieutenant, and Training Captain—before stepping into her current position as EMS Chief for Warren County EMS. Her path has taken her through BLS and ALS transport, 911 EMS, and emergency department care, giving her a deep understanding of the full clinical and operational picture.

Annie’s leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about raising the standard. With a strong foundation in field medicine and a relentless drive for excellence, she’s led system-wide training initiatives, mentored new providers, and helped shape a culture of accountability and compassion within her agency. Her love for education emerged early, and over time, it’s grown into a core part of her mission.

She’s a graduate of the UNC Charlotte EMS Management Institute, holds an Associate’s Degree in Emergency Science, and completed the NC EMS Leadership Academy—all completed while balancing frontline service and leadership duties. Annie’s passion lies in developing future EMS leaders, pushing for high-quality care at every level, and creating training that actually prepares providers for what they’ll face in the field. Whether she’s leading a department or teaching in the classroom, Annie shows up with purpose—and expects others to do the same.

Director of Tactical Programs

Andrew is an Army veteran, where he developed the grit, discipline, and operational mindset that now define his approach to prehospital medicine. After returning home, he transitioned into civilian service as both a paramedic and sworn deputy, dedicating himself to roles that blend tactical readiness with life-saving care.

Over the years, Andrew has served as a tactical medic and consultant for law enforcement and specialty teams across the Southeast United States. His experience in high-threat environments—both overseas and stateside—gives him a unique edge when training others to lead and operate under pressure. Andrew is more than just a boots-on-the-ground operator—he’s a passionate educator. His teaching style is direct, experience-driven, and focused on what actually works in the field.

Whether he's running scenarios or breaking down advanced concepts, Andrew prioritizes real-world application over textbook theory. His ability to translate complex tactics into practical, usable skills makes him a trusted voice in our Tactical Paramedic Programs. If it doesn’t work under fire, Andrew won’t teach it—and that’s exactly why his students walk away sharper, more confident, and mission-ready.

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Lead Instructor

With eight years of experience in Emergency Medical Services, Ashton Nicole White brings a rare blend of field experience, academic excellence, and a fierce dedication to equitable EMS education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Health with a concentration in health education and promotion. Her passion centers around closing the gap in rural healthcare, addressing substance use disorder with compassion, and reshaping the way EMS is taught and delivered—especially in underserved communities.

Ashton began her journey in EMS education teaching public safety and EMT-level courses at the high school level. She has since served as a lead instructor in both college-based EMT programs and fire academy training initiatives. Currently, she leads EMS instruction and coordinates training programs across multiple fire departments, supporting regional efforts to strengthen EMS education and readiness.

As a North Carolina OEMS Level 1 Instructor and certified AHA Instructor, Ashton’s classroom is far from traditional. Her teaching style is inclusive, practical, and learner-focused—aimed at building confident, competent EMS providers regardless of their background. She holds certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and Emotional Trauma Life Support (ETLS), reflecting her deep commitment to mental health and resilience in EMS. Actively advancing toward paramedic certification, Ashton continues to push forward as both a practitioner and educator, shaping the future of EMS with purpose, passion, and a whole lot of heart.

Data Guy

I don't even know this guy.