Steve Tafoya is a practicing Critical Care Paramedic, EMS instructor, former State EMS Program Manager for Nevada, and former U.S. Coast Guard Health Services Technician with over 25 years of experience in emergency medical services, regulatory compliance, healthcare operations, and disaster response. He holds advanced graduate degrees in Healthcare Management (MBA) and Legal Studies (MLS), providing a unique ability to bridge clinical realities with operational standards and regulatory frameworks. He has authored public health legislation, directed interfacility transport programs, led mass-casualty preparedness, and conducted internal audits of credentialing and regulatory enforcement. Steve has overseen statewide EMS compliance for over 60 permitted EMS agencies, along with trauma centers designations, he has deployed nationally with the Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) under Health and Human Services and taught 70 college-level EMS credits hours at the collegiate level.

Education:

• Master of Legal Studies, Business Law & Health Care Compliance – Arizona State University, 2020
• Master of Business Administration, Healthcare Administration – Auburn University, 2017
• Emerging Leaders Program – Harvard Kennedy School of Government, 2014
• BGS, Business & Communication – University of Nevada, Reno, 2013
• Critical Care Paramedic – University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2010
• Paramedic – College of the Albemarle, 2004
• Health Services Technician – U.S. Coast Guard, 2002

Certifications:

• Nevada State Critical Care Paramedic
• National Registry Emergency Medical Technician- Paramedic
• Nevada State Emergency Medical Technician- Paramedic
• Nevada State EMS Primary Instructor
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support
• Basic Life Support
• International Trauma Life Support
• Nevada State Ambulance Attendance License
• Coaching the Emergency Vehicle Operator
• Basic Disaster Life Support
• Field Management of Chemical and Biological Casualties