When it comes to going the extra mile — literally and figuratively — few do it better than Gunnison Valley Hospital’s own Vikki McClaskey. The longtime Advanced Emergency Medical Technician has been named Utah’s AEMT of the Year, a prestigious honor recognizing her dedication, compassion, and outstanding service to the community.

McClaskey will be honored during National Emergency Medical Services Week at a special awards ceremony on Wednesday, May 21, at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper.

For McClaskey, the award is a humbling acknowledgment of her years of service–but she’s quick to deflect the spotlight. “I really do not want to be recognized individually,” she said. “I seriously cannot do this job without my EMTs. I feel like this shouldn’t be an individual award. It should be an agency award because I have the most amazing group of EMTs who I get to work with side by side daily. They are definitely my heroes.”

Still, her colleagues and patients would agree — Vikki McClaskey’s dedication deserves recognition.

A career built on service

McClaskey began her journey as a basic EMT in 2009, advancing to an AEMT in 2013. She was hired by Gunnison Valley Hospital in 2010, and for the past five years, she has served as the hospital’s EMS Director, guiding a team of first responders through emergencies big and small.

“She leads through her selfless service to patients, co-workers, and community members alike,” said Brenda Bartholomew, CEO of Gunnison Valley Hospital. “We are fortunate and grateful to have Vikki on our team. She is a wonderful example to me and embodies our mission and values at GVH. There couldn’t be a more deserving person for this award.”

McClaskey was nominated by Rich Wirsch, a fellow EMT who works both at Gunnison Valley Hospital and the Central Utah Correctional Facility. Her leadership, work ethic, and humility made her stand out among EMS professionals across the state.

Above and beyond

One particularly memorable moment came when a couple from New Jersey, passing through Gunnison, were in a car accident and needed medical attention. After receiving treatment at Gunnison Valley Hospital, they found themselves without transportation–their rental car totaled. That’s when McClaskey stepped in.

She didn’t just offer them directions or call a cab. She personally drove the couple to Provo, helping them get back on their journey.

In a message to Gov. Spencer Cox, the couple wrote:

“The people could not have been more gracious and helpful. We had to go to the hospital to be checked out and the staff, doctors, nurses, EMTs were amazing! One person in particular, Vikki McClaskey, was kind enough… to actually drive us north to Provo to help us Rent-A-Car. You should be very proud of the people of this little town because they deserve a shout out as one of the kindest communities I’ve ever encountered. Thank you Gunnison Valley! We will never forget you and your people!”

Stories like these are not the exception for McClaskey–they’re the norm. Whether it’s treating injuries, calming worried family members, coordinating with law enforcement, or ensuring her team has what they need, she is a constant, dependable presence in times of crisis.

A quiet hero

In true EMT fashion, McClaskey is modest about her accomplishments. But those around her know the award is well deserved. Over her 15 years of service, she has become a pillar of the Gunnison Valley community and a mentor to many in the emergency medical field.

“She never seeks credit for what she does,” said one colleague. “But you won’t find anyone more dedicated to her patients or her team. She shows up — physically, emotionally, and professionally — every single day.”

McClaskey’s recognition as Utah’s AEMT of the Year shines a light not just on her individual contributions but also on the tireless work of EMTs across the state — many of whom, like Vikki, serve in rural areas where resources can be limited but the need is just as urgent.

As McClaskey prepares to accept the award, she hopes the honor brings recognition to her entire team at Gunnison Valley Hospital. “This job is never about one person,” she said. “It’s about the team and the people we serve. I’m just grateful to be part of it.”

Congratulations, Vikki — and thank you for reminding us all what true service looks like.

Event details:

What: National EMS Week Awards Ceremony

When: Wednesday, May 21

Where: Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, Draper, UT

For more about Gunnison Valley Hospital EMS, visit http://www.gvhospital.org.