Dalene Deck, Paramedic
Paramedic Instructor, Hutchinson Community College
For Dalene Deck, a career in EMS started with a high school EMT class and a love for the TV show EMERGENCY! Decades later, that early spark has grown into a life-long commitment to the field of emergency medical services, both as a provider and an educator.
Dalene’s journey into EMS began during her senior year of high school when the local ambulance service director offered an evening EMT class. “It didn’t conflict with sports, so I convinced my parents to let me take it,” she recalls. That decision led her to begin volunteering with her local EMS service. A few years later, she was accepted into paramedic school. From there, her career flourished. She spent 33 years serving Sedgwick County and is now in her seventh year teaching paramedic students at Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC).
The seeds of her passion were planted early. “The TV show EMERGENCY! really got me interested,” Dalene says. “I’ve always loved helping others and was curious about medicine and the human body. EMS gave me the chance to problem-solve, help people, and work outside of a traditional office—all in one job.”
Today, Dalene serves as both a board member and the Education Manager for the Kansas EMS Association (KEMSA). Her involvement with the association goes back more than two decades. “I first attended a KEMSA conference about 25 years ago. I met incredible people—many of whom became life-long friends, mentors, and co-workers. KEMSA showed me there’s a bigger EMS world outside of just my own service.”
Her motivation to stay involved is clear: “KEMSA brings together all the parts of EMS—large and small services, educators, administrators, peer support—and works for the good of EMS across Kansas.”
When asked about her favorite KEMSA activity, Dalene doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely the annual conference. At first, it was about education and meeting people. Now, it’s also about reconnecting with old friends. As CE manager, I really enjoy helping others succeed—whether it’s entering continuing education hours or guiding someone through the KSBEMS portal.”
Beyond her EMS career, Dalene has a creative side that many might not know about. “I love paper crafting and making greeting cards. I even go on crafting retreats a few times a year with friends.” And while it’s no secret she loves dogs, there’s one breed that’s stolen her heart: the Schipperke. “I currently have three of them. They’re like potato chips—you can’t have just one!”
Dalene Deck embodies the spirit of service and lifelong learning that defines Kansas EMS. Through her dedication to education, advocacy, and connection, she continues to leave a lasting mark on the profession.
