Iredell County announces new Emergency Medical Services (EMS) leadership

Following a national search, Iredell County is pleased to announce that Eric Morrison will become Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Director effective November 14, 2024. Morrison brings to the role nearly three decades of experience and a track record of excellence in care and a dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

For the last seven years, Morrison has served as EMS Director for Piedmont Medical Center, a South Carolina hospital-based EMS agency with 165 employees and an annual budget of $14 million. Prior to that, he held roles in North Carolina including as EMS Director for Wilkes County and serving in various roles for MEDIC in Mecklenburg County. Morrison earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Appalachian State University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Pfeiffer University.

In addition to his hands-on experience, and clear passion for public service, Morrison is also deeply committed to honoring the sacrifices of EMS personnel. He serves as a board member for the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride, an organization that pays tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

“I am excited to join Iredell County and appreciate the faith leadership is placing in me,” said Morrison, “Being patient-centered is the objective, but I recognize achieving that requires leadership to be employee-focused. In the end, I believe leadership is about serving those you have the privilege of leading.”

Robby Milton will be joining Iredell County EMS (ICEMS) alongside Morrison, serving as Deputy Director of Support Services, responsible for quality assurance, training, and recruitment. Milton will bring to the role his passion for responsive, forward-thinking, and patient-centered care developed across a nearly 20-year career.

Since 2008, Milton has served Burke County, North Carolina. For the last two years, Milton has served as EMS Major of Operations/Deputy Director, managing all aspects of EMS operations and helping design and implement community paramedicine and prehospital blood programs. Milton earned a Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management from Western Carolina University and a Master of Public Safety Leadership and Administration from Arizona State University.

Morrison and Milton will join two long-standing employees, Deputy Director of Operations David

Cloer and Assistant Director Misty Saunders, to form the department’s new executive leadership team.

“Iredell County is fortunate to have a talented and committed EMS team serving our community,” said County Manager Beth Milton, “We are confident Mr. Morrison and Mr. Milton, alongside our existing leaders, will help propel the agency forward as we strive to become the premier EMS agency in the country.”

ICEMS is the sole Advanced Life Support (ALS) provider for the county and its municipalities responding to more than 33,000 calls annually. The department includes over 200 full and part-time professionals that respond to 911 calls, handle routine and out-of-county patient transfers, deliver community paramedicine, and operate an impactful peer support program.

Interested in joining the team? ICEMS is currently recruiting for EMT’s and Paramedics. Visit www.iredellcountync.gov no later than Wednesday, November 20 for more information or to apply.