Escambia County EMS Paramedic Nick Watley Honored as 2025 State Paramedic of the Year

"On behalf of my family and my team at Escambia County EMS, I'm honored and humbled to be recognized as the Paramedic of the Year by the Florida Department of Health," Watley said. "While this is an individual recognition, this award was made possible due to the men and women I have the pleasure of serving with. I couldn't be prouder of what this organization has accomplished and what we will continue to accomplish in 2026."

The Paramedic of the Year award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional qualities in several areas including patient care, quality assurance, medical control, disaster preparedness, public education and training. The award also recognizes a paramedic who has acted above and beyond the call of duty in the EMS profession and in their community.

For more than 30 years, the Florida Department of Health Excellence in Emergency Medical Services Awards have recognized men and women who provide lifesaving services in times of crisis. The awards pay tribute to the brave medical professionals and agencies that ensure the public's health and safety in times of an emergency.

In addition to his statewide recognition as the 2025 Paramedic of the Year, Watley was named the April 2025 Employee of the Month by the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners for his leadership and commitment to providing the best possible service and care for patients.

Watley began his public safety career in 2006 as a firefighter and EMT in Selma, Alabama before joining Escambia County EMS as a paramedic in May 2020. He was promoted to Paramedic Supervisor in January 2022, where he manages an entire shift of ambulances and guides dozens of paramedics and EMTs, providing the necessary coordination and support that allows them to be successful.

"Paramedic Watley is well-deserving of this honor," EMS Chief Chris Watts said. "From quality assurance to overall patient care, he sets a high standard on what it means to be a paramedic for Escambia County EMS. He is a proven, respected leader and truly embodies what it means to a first responder."