Service Through Action: Karl Sweeting Earns National EMS Leadership Honor

Publish Date: July 22, 2026

From combat medic to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) instructor, Karl Sweeting has spent his entire career giving back to those who need it most. His hard work and positive impact are now being recognized by The National Association of EMS Educators (NAEMSE) at their annual symposium on August 13, 2026, in Reno, Nevada.

At this symposium, Crafton Hills College’s EMS Adjunct Faculty, Karl Sweeting, will be presented with the James O. Page Award. This award is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies exceptional leadership in EMS areas related to fire-service. It is awarded to individuals who have been instrumental in promoting and creating “non-clinical innovation and achievements in fire-service EMS management and leadership that has had a positive impact nationally.”

Karl’s experience as a combat medic for the U.S. Army and his passion for teaching both inform how he approaches his students. “I bring real-world and combat experience into the classroom, along with the dedication and discipline that are essential for student success in this field. I focus on creating hands-on, engaging learning environments that not only build clinical skills but also instill confidence, professionalism, and a strong sense of responsibility,” says Karl.

Karl made a point to highlight the accomplishments and impact of the EMS program and the dedication of Crafton’s EMS students. He noted that Crafton’s EMS program prepares students for work in the real world. Students experience “high-impact, hands-on training” while many of them are also balancing multiple responsibilities like school, work, and family. Karl is consistently impressed by student’s ability to consistently “show up ready to learn, support one another, and grow into confident providers.”

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see them develop not just technical skills but also compassion and resilience—qualities that truly define the EMS profession.” Always remembering the big picture, he says that “Supporting students as they grow into capable EMS providers continues to be the most meaningful part of my work.”

Karl’s motto is “Service through action. Leadership through teaching.” He embodies this philosophy through his teaching at Crafton and is now getting much deserved recognition from NAEMSE for his outstanding achievements in his field.

NAEMSE’s core mission is to “inspire educational excellence” and Karl Sweeting achieves this goal many times over. Crafton Hills College is thrilled to honor his amazing achievement.