Eagle County Paramedic Services names its new chief operating officer
Steve Vardaman is a longtime veteran of the district

Courtesy photo
Steve Vardaman has been promoted to chief operating officer of the Eagle County Paramedic Services District. The announcement was made recently by district CEO Brandon Daruna.
Vardaman previously served as the district’s operations manager. In his new role, Vardaman will help shape the district’s operational vision and strategy with a focus on meeting the evolving needs of the community.
“Steve’s promotion to COO reflects his dedication, leadership and deep connection to our community,” Daruna said. “I’m excited to see him lead our operations and continue enhancing the exceptional care we provide to Eagle County.”
A dedicated EMS professional, Vardaman has been with the district since 2002, starting as an emergency medical technician. Over the years, he has advanced his career through roles including paramedic, field trainer and paramedic supervisor. He has also earned certifications as a Certified Flight Paramedic and a State of Colorado POST-Certified Reserve Sheriff’s Deputy. Vardaman is one of only 27 IBSC Certified Tactical Paramedics in Colorado. He also serves as a paramedic ski patroller for Vail Resorts, where he has contributed to developing advanced medical protocols for on-mountain injury response.
In his role as chief operating officer, Vardaman is responsible for providing leadership, vision and innovation throughout all aspects of district operations including: 911 ambulance transport services, community paramedicine, critical care interfacility transport services, wildland fire, backcountry search and rescue, tactical medical teams and supporting the training and clinical department.

Support Local Journalism
“I am thrilled to take on this new role and continue working alongside our exceptional team to serve the Eagle River Valley,” Vardaman said. “Our staff’s commitment to providing outstanding out-of-hospital care is inspiring and I look forward to supporting their efforts and strengthening the impact we have on our community.”
Vardaman holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from Iowa State University and has called the Eagle River Valley home since 1991.