Cody Zehnder is a Critical Care Paramedic with Emplify Health Ambulance who has built his EMS career through continuous growth, clinical excellence, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. His experience spans volunteer EMS, hospital emergency care, ambulance service, and military medicine.

Cody began his EMS journey in 2017 as a volunteer EMT with Caledonia Ambulance Service in Minnesota, later advancing to AEMT and Paramedic. In 2018, he expanded his clinical experience by joining the Mayo Clinic Emergency Department in La Crosse as an EMT.

Cody’s commitment to service also extends to the military. After serving five and a half years with the Minnesota Army National Guard as a tank crewmember, he earned his 68W Combat Medic military occupational specialty with the Wisconsin Army National Guard in August 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cody answered another community need by contracting to administer COVID-19 tests and vaccines.

In 2021, Cody joined the Gundersen Emergency Department as an EMT. He earned his Paramedic license in October 2022 and joined Emplify Health Ambulance as a Paramedic in September 2023. Continuing his pattern of professional development, Cody achieved his Critical Care license in January 2025, further expanding his ability to care for patients with complex medical needs.

While Cody’s progression reflects an impressive commitment to clinical development, his impact is perhaps best demonstrated through the experiences of his patients and their families. Following a frightening emergency involving a young child, the patient’s family specifically recognized Cody for the outstanding care he provided. Their appreciation reflects his ability to combine clinical skill with the compassion and reassurance families need during some of their most difficult moments.

From volunteering as an EMT to advancing into critical care and military medicine, Cody has consistently sought opportunities to learn, grow, and serve. His professionalism, compassion, clinical expertise, and dedication to continued development exemplify the qualities at the heart of emergency medical services.

Emplify Health Ambulance is proud to recognize Cody Zehnder as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

For more than 30 years, Karla Eppler has dedicated her career to emergency medical services as a Paramedic, Educator, and Administrator. While her decades of service alone reflect an extraordinary commitment to EMS, Karla’s recent work to recognize today’s first responders and prepare tomorrow’s Paramedics demonstrates the lasting impact of her leadership.

Karla created the Emplify Health EMS Challenge Coin program as a way to recognize those who help others in their time of need. What began as an effort to honor the staff of Tri-State Ambulance and Emplify Health Ambulance has grown into recognition of first responders throughout the broader EMS and public safety community. Karla frequently spends her evenings traveling throughout western Wisconsin to EMS, fire, and law enforcement agencies to personally recognize the people who serve their communities every day.

In professions where extraordinary service can too often go unrecognized, Karla makes it her mission to ensure first responders understand that their work matters. Through the challenge coin program, she celebrates not only exceptional actions, but also the everyday commitment of those who consistently answer the call and make a difference in the lives of others.

At the same time, Karla has been working tirelessly to help secure the future of EMS by developing a Paramedic education program. She has devoted countless hours to learning the accreditation process, assembling a talented faculty, and guiding the team through the development of the program and its training facility. Her work will help prepare future generations of Paramedics to answer the call for help and create a legacy that will extend far beyond her own career.

Whether recognizing those who serve today or developing those who will serve tomorrow, Karla has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening the EMS profession and the people within it.

Outside of work, Karla enjoys spending time with family and friends. An avid cyclist and triathlete, she also encourages others to discover activities they enjoy and make an active lifestyle part of their lives.

Through more than three decades of service, leadership, education, and advocacy for her fellow first responders, Karla has made an enduring impact on EMS and the communities it serves. Tri-State Ambulance and Emplify Health Ambulance are proud to recognize Karla Eppler as a 2026 Star of Life.

Every EMS professional answers the call for help, but some consistently go above and beyond what is expected. For Wayne Atchley, an EMT with Tri-State Ambulance, going above and beyond for his patients, colleagues, service, and community is simply how he approaches each day.

What was originally intended to be a retirement job became a meaningful second career in service to others. Over the years, Wayne has become a dedicated and dependable member of Tri-State Ambulance, generously giving his time and experience to both new and seasoned EMS professionals.

As a Field Training Officer (FTO), Wayne takes particular pride in helping new EMTs begin their careers. He invests significant time in each new team member, ensuring they receive the guidance, experience, and encouragement they need to succeed. A natural teacher, Wayne understands that being an FTO is about more than completing an orientation process—it is an opportunity to build confidence, share knowledge, and help shape the next generation of EMS professionals.

Wayne’s compassion, empathy, and infectious smile are equally important to his impact. Whether supporting a colleague, caring for a patient, or working alongside other responders at an emergency scene, his calm and engaging personality puts those around him at ease.

His commitment to service also extends into the rural communities Tri-State Ambulance serves. Wayne regularly helps staff special events, but for him, these assignments are about more than covering a race or working a first aid station. He uses every opportunity to teach, encourage, and help those around him become better providers.

Wayne is also a dedicated husband and father who has shared his passion for EMS with his family. His example has had a particularly meaningful influence on his son, Michael, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a Paramedic. It is a fitting reflection of Wayne’s legacy: His greatest impact can be seen not only in the patients he has cared for, but also in the people he has inspired to serve others.

Through his compassion, mentorship, dependability, and commitment to his community, Wayne exemplifies the very best of emergency medical services. Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize him as an American Ambulance Association Star of Life.

Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Brian Heisz as a Star of Life.

Born and raised in Fennimore, Wisconsin, Brian continues to live there with his wife, Jenifer, and their youngest daughter. Together they enjoy a close-knit family that also includes three adult children and one grandson. Outside of EMS, Brian and Jenifer own and operate a quilt shop in Fennimore.

Brian’s path to EMS began in 2013, when he read a local newspaper article calling for volunteer ambulance members. Inspired to serve, he joined the Fennimore Area Rescue Squad and quickly discovered his calling. He earned his Advanced EMT certification in 2022, followed by his Paramedic certification in 2024 through Gundersen’s Paramedic Trainee Program.

Today, Brian serves full-time as a Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance while also leading as Acting Service Director for Fennimore Area Rescue Squad. He has worked tirelessly with the medical director to implement flex staffing, ensuring a higher level of care for the residents of his community. His dedication to patient care and operational improvement exemplifies his commitment to EMS.

Brian’s service is also a family affair. His wife, Jenifer, is an Emergency Medical Responder, and their son, Nic, is a full-time Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance who also volunteers in Fennimore. Around their dinner table, the running joke is that EMS is the family business.

Through his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to patients and colleagues, Brian has made a lasting impact on both Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance and the Fennimore community.

Cynthia Torkelson is a dedicated Paramedic with Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, deeply committed to the well-being of her patients. She always strives to provide the best care and continuously seeks opportunities to grow in her EMS career. Cynthia’s journey in healthcare began with her service as an EMR for the Monona Volunteer Ambulance in 2015, where she served for eight years before advancing to EMT and later earning her Paramedic certification in 2020.

Originally from Elkader, IA, Cynthia graduated from Central High School and then earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology Ecological and Systematics, with minors in German and Natural History and Interpretation, from the University of Northern Iowa. In 2022, Cynthia and her husband, Nick, both joined Gundersen Health System Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, where they have since become an integral part of the EMS community.

Cynthia’s compassionate approach and dedication to her patients have earned her respect among her peers. She is excited to continue her career in healthcare, constantly seeking new experiences and challenges to enhance her skills. Cynthia and Nick reside in Monona, IA, with their two sons, Andrew and Bennet. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community and for the recognition of her efforts.

For nearly 15 years, Sam Sye has been the backbone of Tri-State Ambulance’s fleet and facilities management. His vast expertise in ambulance maintenance and repair has ensured a reliable and efficient fleet of 30 ambulances and support vehicles. Remarkably, until this year, Sam single-handedly maintained the entire fleet, managing everything from preventive maintenance to complete engine overhauls and even bodywork, particularly dealing with frequent deer strikes.

Beyond his work with the fleet, Sam oversees the maintenance of Tri-State Ambulance’s eight facilities. His dedication extends further, as Sam is also a licensed EMT and is always willing to step in and run on an ambulance when the demand for services is high.

Sam’s peers describe him as a dedicated, dependable, and indispensable member of the team. Known for his exceptional work ethic and commitment to patient care, Sam is “virtually never unreachable.” He consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring the fleet is always ready, even on his days off. As one colleague puts it, “Without Sam’s hard work and dedication, we would not be able to drive down the road.”

Sam’s commitment to the safety of the community, his colleagues, and his patients makes him a standout in the field of EMS, and Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to honor him as a 2024 Star of Life.

Mark Schiltz has dedicated over three decades to emergency medical services, beginning his EMS career on May 1, 1988, when he earned his EMT certification and joined the Caledonia Ambulance Service. Currently serving as co-director of the service, Mark continues to make a profound impact on his community. After retiring in 2021 from a 33-year career as a jail administrator, Mark transitioned to full-time work as an EMT with Gundersen Health System Ambulance.

Mark’s dedication to EMS is evident in his compassionate care for patients and his role as a mentor to his colleagues. Known for being an outstanding EMT and a knowledgeable mentor, Mark is also recognized for his work as a CEVO (Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator) Instructor, where he shares his expertise and helps ensure the safety and effectiveness of EMS operations.

Mark and his wife, Karen, reside in Caledonia, where they enjoy spending time with their close-knit family, including their two sons, Isaac (Lauren) and Devin (Katie), and their grandson, Holden. The family treasures their time together, particularly on the river in their family-owned pontoon.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication to EMS, Gundersen Health System Ambulance is proud to honor Mark Schiltz as a 2024 Star of Life. His commitment to his patients, community, and colleagues makes him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Loren Mitchell has been a dedicated Paramedic with Tri-State Ambulance for more than ten years. During this time, Loren’s passion and commitment have propelled him into several key roles, including Preceptor, Field Training Officer, Shift Leader, and ultimately Operations Supervisor with a focus on Clinical Services. His clinical expertise, dedication, and compassionate care have set a remarkable standard within Tri-State Ambulance.

Loren consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating unwavering commitment to saving lives and providing top-notch medical care. His ability to remain calm under pressure inspires confidence in both patients and colleagues, making him a trusted and respected figure in the organization.

Known for his infectious laughter and sense of humor, Loren brightens even the most difficult moments, spreading positivity and joy among his peers. He is a practical thinker who goes out of his way to make new employees feel welcome, ensuring that the team functions cohesively and with confidence.

Loren’s patients receive not only the highest quality medical care but also a compassionate touch that helps alleviate fear and anxiety. His exceptional communication skills foster a positive and reassuring environment, bridging the gap between patients, families, and the medical team.

Loren also excels as a leader, readily sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow paramedics and EMTs, which enhances the overall competency of the team. His dedication to ongoing education and training is reflected in his consistently outstanding performance, setting the highest standards of paramedic practice.

In recognition of his tireless efforts, exemplary patient care, and unwavering commitment to the field of paramedicine, it is an honor to have Loren represent Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance as a 2024 Star of Life.

Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance is proud to recognize Paramedic Gregg Bulman, who has been serving since October 1995. With more than 29 years of experience, Gregg is more than just a dedicated Paramedic—he’s a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His joy and pride in his family are evident whenever he speaks of them.

Gregg’s peers nominated him for the 2024 Star of Life for his exceptional care and compassion. Known for treating every patient like family, Gregg’s kindness and signature smile were repeatedly highlighted in his nominations. As one nominator noted, “When Gregg walks into a room smiling, he brings a smile to everyone’s face.” His positive energy on every shift is inspiring, especially after nearly three decades in EMS.

Gregg is also an outstanding teacher, sharing his extensive knowledge without ever making others feel inferior. Many say they are better EMS providers after working with him. He’s also known for his generosity, often treating his team to his famous “Bulman breakfasts,” complete with eggs, pancakes, sausage, and sometimes even steak.

Outside of work, Gregg enjoys spending time with his family, working on the farm, and playing the occasional round of golf. He exemplifies what a rewarding and successful EMS career looks like.

Over the span of her EMS career, Jill Roys has held every title available. She started as a driver, then progressed to EMR, EMT, Paramedic, then Critical Care Paramedic. Today, she serves her community as a Lead Paramedic.

Jill greets each workday with a positive, can-do attitude. She is not afraid of a challenge, is always willing to help out, and serves as an extraordinary role model for both new and seasoned field providers. For example, she goes above and beyond in her efforts to assist with the orientation and training of new employees. Onboarding new staff is not always an easy task, but her dedication drives the success of the process.

Jill was born and raised in a rural community in northeast Iowa. She is married to her husband, Shad, who is a Sergeant with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department as well as an ambulance driver. Jill has four kids, two stepkids, and one grandchild. In their free time, the Roys love to ride motorcycles and go boating with family.

Jill Roys is a true team player and a great leader to Gundersen Ambulance. Each day, Jill demonstrates teamwork, integrity, and leadership—all that a Star should be!

Rich began his EMS career in Honolulu nearly 20 years ago. Last year, he returned to his roots when he relocated to Western Wisconsin.

Rich is passionate about mobile healthcare and has embraced the future by spending significant amounts of time mentoring and teaching newer EMS providers.

Rich joined the Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance team less than two years ago. However, he has already had an outsized positive impact due to his many years of Paramedic experience in a larger market. His deep experience coupled with his friendly and helpful personality have greatly helped with the onboarding of new employees and EMS providers.

In his free time, Rich loves the outdoors. He is an avid fisherman and hunter.

Nate began his career at Tri-State Ambulance in 2005. His amazing knowledge and ability to teach led Nate to become an FTO and Preceptor for new employees and students. His leadership skills, as well as his kind, compassionate, and personable attitude, made him a perfect fit for the company’s Shift Resource Officer/Corporal role.

Nate has displayed a level of professionalism, analytical thought, and reliability that is rare not only in the EMS field but in any profession. In his time as a Corporal, he has shown remarkable leadership skills. Nate does not seek out confrontation, but he is never intimidated by difficult conversations that need to happen with his coworkers. The quality bonds that he has built with his colleagues has led to him being affectionately known as “the grandpa” of his shift.

In a Star of Life nomination letter submitted to Tri-State Ambulance on Nate’s behalf, a coworker described Nate’s determination to take time for mental health and to appreciate the moment:

“Nate was a partner of mine on one of my first shifts 14+ years ago. During a particularly stressful day, we were assigned to a posting location. On the way to that location, we stopped near a park bench along the Mississippi River. He insisted that we get out of the truck, and we sat on the bench for five minutes. I don’t remember any words that were said, but the message was clear. Self-care is a skill that can’t be overlooked. Never forgot to appreciate your surroundings and where you are in your life’s journey.”

Nate’s interpersonal strengths are complimented by his work ethic. If there is ever down time during his shift, Nate can often be found fixing medical equipment and performing general station maintenance, often before an issue is even reported.

Callie Revels began her career at Tri-State Ambulance as an EMT in 2015. She grew into the role of Logistics Technician and became a reliable partner for our Critical Care team. While working full-time, Callie received her Paramedic Technical Diploma and transitioned into a full-time Paramedic position. She quickly became a leader amongst her peers and acquired FTO and Preceptor endorsements at the Paramedic level. Her leadership skills and attitude made her an obvious choice for promotion into a Shift Resource Officer role, which gives her the endorsement of Corporal.

Callie continues to impress with her clinical excellence and bedside manner with unwavering compassion. She brings her personality to work, sharing her creativity and witty humor. Not only does Callie care for her patients, but she also cares for her coworkers, leaders, and the company that she works for. Callie displays a high level of integrity, responsibility, and ambition. Her drive is infectious and inspires those around her to work harder and allows for others to perform at their very best. At Tri-State Ambulance we are so lucky that she chose us, and she is our STAR!

Tyler’s EMS journey began in 2011 when he began a degree in Med/Fire Rescue at Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, SD. After graduating in 2013, he began working as an EMT with Brookings Health Systems Ambulance in Brookings, SD.

In 2015, Tyler began Paramedic school at Avera McKennan School of EMS in Sioux Falls, SD, and finished the program in 2016. He continued working in Brookings until the following year, when he left to start work with Gundersen Tri-State Regional Ambulance in Prairie du Chien, WI.

Tyler has been nominated as a 2022 Star of Life for his sincere passion for EMS, as well as his dedication to his patients and colleagues. He is always willing to lend a hand with any project, and has been an invaluable mentor and friend to new employees.

Tyler’s hobbies and interests include hunting, fishing, boating, football, baseball, and traveling with his family and friends.