Greenville, OH — Spirit EMS has been named the Darke County Economic Development 2026 Business of the Year, recognizing the organization’s leadership, innovation, and commitment to both community and workforce development.
Each year, the award honors a business that demonstrates excellence in its field while making a meaningful impact on the local economy and quality of life. Spirit EMS was selected for its continued growth, investment in people, and dedication to providing high-quality medical transportation services across the region.
“Spirit has distinguished itself through its unwavering commitment to providing reliable, high-quality medical transportation while supporting the needs of residents, healthcare providers, and families across our region,” explained Darke County Economic Development Director Mike Bowers.
With six locations across Ohio and Indiana, Spirit EMS operates a fleet of more than 80 vehicles, including ambulances, wheelchair vans, and specialized response units, ensuring comprehensive coverage for emergency and non-emergency transportation needs.
Accepting the award on behalf of the organization was Spirit EMS President/CEO Brian K. Hathaway, who expressed gratitude to the community and emphasized the company’s continued commitment to service and growth.
“We are truly humbled to be named Darke County Economic Development’s Business of the Year,” Hathaway said. “This recognition means so much to us because it comes from a community that understands hard work, long-term commitment, and the value of investing in people and possibilities.”
Hathaway credited the organization’s success to its employees and strong community partnerships.
“This award belongs to our employees—those who served in years past, those serving today, and those who will join us in the future,” he said. “We show up each day uncertain of the need, but absolutely certain of this—we will answer the call with courage, compassion, and heart.”
A key component of Spirit EMS’s continued growth has been its focus on workforce development and innovation. The organization has launched programs such as its EMT Boot Camp, Earn While You Learn EMT scholarship initiatives, and partnerships with higher education institutions to build the next generation of emergency medical professionals.
Spirit EMS is also investing in the future by developing the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center, a project designed to expand training opportunities and serve as a gathering space for both healthcare professionals and the broader community. The training and community center is expected to open this summer.
“Designed with a barn-style theme rooted in our agricultural heritage, this center will be a place where new EMTs begin their calling and where community members come together,” Hathaway said.
Economic development leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration for the project’s success, noting the role of local and state partnerships in bringing the vision to life.
The organization traces its roots back to a small operation with just three ambulances and eight part-time employees.
Today, Spirit EMS employs nearly 140 team members and continues to expand its services and reach.
At the core of its mission is a guiding principle that has remained unchanged: providing compassionate, high-quality care with a personal touch. As leaders noted during the presentation, Spirit EMS continues to exemplify its philosophy of “our family taking care of your family.”
Hathaway concluded by recognizing the broader community that made the achievement possible.
“We are honored. We are grateful. We are excited about what comes next,” he said.
Photo: Representatives from Spirit EMS accepted the Darke County Economic Development Business of the Year award, including (front row, from left) Captain Will Gardam, Executive Administrative Assistant Amanda Fore, EMT Trista Endsley, and EMT Michelle Koontz; (second row) CDST Director Sarah Stump, Interim Chief of Employee and Facility Outreach Brian R. Brown, Vice President Aaron Guthrie, President/CEO Brian K. Hathaway, Employee Relations Coordinator Larissa Winchester, and Driver Melissa Ramsey; and (back row, from left) Interim Operations/Project Manager Curt Garrison, Director of HR/Regulatory Affairs Ted Bruner, EMT Dan Hittle, and EMT Jacob Miller.
