Priority Ambulance today announced the promotion of Ray Gayk to Pacific Region Regional President, a strategic leadership appointment that underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between fire and EMS agencies and advancing integrated, patient-centered emergency medical care across the communities it serves.
In his new role, Gayk will lead Priority Ambulance’s Pacific region operations, guiding continued growth and operational excellence as the company expands its presence and prepares for the launch of CONFIRE EMS later this year.
Gayk brings more than 35 years of experience in public safety, including over three decades of service in the fire service. His distinguished career includes leadership positions ranging from firefighter/paramedic to Fire Chief of the City of Ontario Fire Department, along with service in specialized roles such as SWAT paramedic, Training Officer, Captain, Battalion Chief, and Senior Deputy Fire Chief.
Most recently, Gayk served as Director of Public Safety Relations for Priority Ambulance, where he led the company’s engagement with public safety agencies nationwide. In that role, he worked closely with fire service leaders and EMS partners to support strong public-private partnerships, align operational priorities, and enhance coordinated patient care delivery.
“Ray’s deep roots in the fire service and his proven ability to build trusted partnerships make him uniquely positioned to lead our Pacific Region,” said Phil Koster, Chief Operating Officer. “Across our company, Priority Ambulance works hand in hand with fire departments, first responders, healthcare systems, and local governments to create EMS solutions that are collaborative, clinically strong, and responsive to community needs. Ray understands that successful EMS systems are built through partnership, and his leadership will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen those relationships.”
Priority Ambulance has extensive experience working alongside fire departments and fire-based EMS systems across the country. Through these partnerships, the company supports coordinated emergency response, efficient deployment, clinical quality, and seamless communication between fire and EMS teams. Priority’s approach is grounded in respect for the fire service, shared accountability, and a common mission to serve patients and communities with excellence.
Gayk will play a key role in advancing Priority’s strategic initiatives in the Pacific region, including CONFIRE EMS in San Bernardino County, California. The program reflects an innovative, patient-first model designed to enhance regional EMS delivery through close alignment with fire service partners, regional healthcare systems, and local public safety stakeholders.
Priority Ambulance, a division of Priority OnDemand, continues to focus on quality, growth, innovation, and partnership as it expands its footprint nationwide. As a leading provider of emergency medical services and patient logistics, the company is dedicated to delivering safe, dependable, and clinically advanced care while building strong, collaborative relationships with fire departments, public safety agencies, healthcare partners, and the communities it serves.
The appointment of Ray Gayk reflects Priority’s ongoing investment in experienced public safety leadership and its continued commitment to helping fire and EMS partners work together to deliver high-quality emergency medical care to the communities they proudly serve.
