Hildale, Utah – The Rural EMS Directors Association of Utah (REMSDAU) has established a new and prestigious honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, to recognize individuals who have made enduring contributions to the advancement of emergency medical services in rural Utah. In a fitting tribute to his decades of dedicated service, the inaugural award was presented to Kevin Barlow, whose name will now forever be associated with this esteemed recognition: the Barlow Lifetime Achievement Award.
Kevin Barlow’s remarkable EMS journey began in 1980 when he earned his EMT certification. Since then, his leadership and influence have resonated throughout the state and beyond. His pioneering efforts led to the establishment of the first paramedic service south of Provo, a pivotal moment in expanding critical care capabilities in the region. Barlow’s commitment to education is evident in the countless EMT and paramedic classes he instructed across Utah and neighboring states, shaping the skills and knowledge of numerous EMS professionals.
His dedication extended to crucial state committees, where he served on the Utah Grants and Paramedic Subcommittees, contributing to the development of policies and initiatives that have shaped the state’s EMS infrastructure. As a founding member of both the Washington County EMS Council and REMSDAU, Barlow played a vital role in establishing and strengthening these organizations. His leadership within REMSDAU, including his tenure as President, was marked by his unwavering commitment to the association’s mission, even stepping down to prioritize family needs—a testament to his deeply held values.
Beyond his professional achievements, Barlow’s impact on mental health support through the State CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management) team and his steady leadership as Fire Chief in Hildale for over a decade, culminating in his retirement from the Hildale/Colorado City Fire Department just last year, have left an indelible mark on Utah’s EMS community. Colleagues describe him as a calm, steady, and wise mentor, whose words were few but profoundly meaningful. He led with humility and heart, offering guidance and leadership that uplifted those around him.
“Kevin Barlow embodies the best of what EMS leadership can be,” said REMSDAU representative. “His calm demeanor, unwavering integrity, and dedication to service have inspired countless individuals.”
Whether delivering insightful presentations at conferences or leading his team with quiet confidence, Barlow’s influence has been transformative. It is with profound admiration and gratitude that REMSDAU honors Kevin Barlow not only with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award but also by forever associating his name with it. This recognition ensures that his legacy of wisdom, integrity, and service will continue to inspire and guide future generations of EMS professionals in rural Utah.
