Nicholas Clay
EMS Director
Overview
Nick joined the Santa Clara County EMS Agency in July of 2024, as the Director. He leads the Agency's daily operations and strategic development, including budget administration, employee engagement, credential oversight, contract management, and policy formulation.
Nick started his EMS career in 2001 as an EMT, then paramedic, working his way into EMS leadership roles. He later worked for Princess Cruises, developing the first Paramedic Program on major commercial cruise vessels. Nick previously served as the Director of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency for the County of Santa Barbara, a role he has held since 2017. Nick has been active in the Emergency Medical Services Administrators' Association of California (EMSAAC), most recently serving as President. The California Emergency Medical Services Authority named Nick as "EMS Administrator of the Year" for 2023.
Nick holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from American University and earned his Paramedic License from the University of California, Los Angeles.