First Call Ambulance is pleased to announce the promotion of Johnathan Swanger to Director of Operations, effective September 21, 2026. He will report directly to Sam Clark, Vice President of Operations.
Swanger brings more than 12 years of emergency medical services experience and has served as a paramedic since 2014. His extensive clinical and operational background spans rural and high-volume EMS systems and includes 911 response, critical care transport, field supervision, quality improvement, workforce development, training, and operational management.
Throughout his career, Swanger has remained closely connected to field operations while assuming progressively greater leadership responsibilities. During his tenure with First Call Ambulance, he has helped strengthen operational consistency, improve accountability, standardize processes, support field personnel, and develop systems that enhance organizational efficiency and patient care.
His leadership philosophy is grounded in clear expectations, accountability, open communication, and professional development. Swanger believes strong EMS organizations are built by investing in their people and equipping employees with the resources, and support they need to succeed while maintaining consistent clinical and operational standards.
“Johnathan has consistently demonstrated the leadership, sound judgment, and commitment to our employees and patients that this role requires,” said Sam Clark, Vice President of Operations. “He leads with accountability, communicates clear expectations, and earns the trust of those around him. I am confident his steady, field-informed leadership will strengthen First Call Ambulance as we continue to grow and serve our communities.”
As Director of Operations, Swanger will help lead the continued growth and development of First Call Ambulance. His priorities will include strengthening operational performance, developing leaders throughout the organization, supporting employee growth and retention, improving organizational systems, and ensuring field operations remain aligned with the company’s standards for clinical excellence, professionalism, service, and accountability.
Swanger is a Tennessee Critical Care Paramedic and Nationally Registered Paramedic. His clinical background brings a field-informed perspective to operational leadership and reinforces his commitment to decisions that support the employees providing care as well as the patients and communities served by First Call Ambulance.
