Tracey Gray serves as the Director of Education at Jan-Care Ambulance Inc., where she is at the forefront of training over 400 emergency services personnel. Under her guidance, Jan-Care has seen innovations in hybrid EMS education, making it accessible, accredited, and always relevant. As she says, “I take pride in developing personnel competently to be ready to work once certified.”

Tracey’s commitment to EMS is rooted in her service to the nation. Beginning her journey at the Army Medical Department, Department of Combat Medic Training in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, she achieved distinction by graduating from the U.S. Army’s pioneering non-segregated combat medic training. Her 26 years of simultaneous service in the Army Reserve and civilian EMS culminated in her retirement as a soldier, but her spirit to serve the community as an EMS leader never waned.

Achieving the rank of 1SG E-8 in the Army, Tracey held profound responsibilities in a Ground Ambulance Unit. Her military training, encompassing combat medic to military-specific medical evacuation procedures, combined with her role as an Army Basic Instructor and Army Reserve Career Counselor, showcases a breadth of leadership and expertise. These accomplishments are underscored by a host of military achievements including the Army Commendation Medal with V Device and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

In the civilian realm, Tracey’s commitment to EMS is unyielding. Having attained her National Registry Paramedic certification 28 years ago, and later her Critical Care Paramedic in West Virginia, she is the clinical helm for critical care at Jan-Care, supervising 30 Critical Care Paramedics. Beyond the ambulance, Tracey has served as a firefighter with the Ansted Certified Fire Department for over a decade, and specializes in Vertical and Swiftwater Rescues within New River National Park.

As an educator, Tracey’s aim is clear: cultivate tomorrow’s leaders. She ardently believes in removing barriers for students and ensuring when they graduate, they are fully equipped for the job. Her mottos, “Train as we fight!” and “BE, KNOW, DO,” encapsulate her philosophy of genuine mentorship and active skill-building. This passion for education is further evidenced by her myriad teaching certifications and her active participation in curriculum development for the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services.

With an educational background that boasts a Certificate in Paramedic, an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership, Tracey is a beacon of knowledge and capability. Yet, at the heart of it all, she remains a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing her family and the outdoors.

For all her accomplishments, Tracey Gray remains dedicated to the ethos of service, education, and paving the way for future EMS leaders. She is truly deserving of the 2023 Stars of Life award.