Powhatan County, VA – On November 15, 2024, The Honorable Glenn Youngkin, Governor of Virginia, has appointed Madison Lee Blaska, Emergency Communications Supervisor for Powhatan County Public Safety Communications, to the Virginia State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board. Representing the Virginia Association of Public Safety Officials (VA APCO), Madison will bring her extensive experience, dedication, and leadership in public safety and emergency medical services to this critical advisory body.
Powhatan County, VA – On November 15, 2024, The Honorable Glenn Youngkin, Governor of Virginia, has appointed Madison Lee Blaska, Emergency Communications Supervisor for Powhatan County Public Safety Communications, to the Virginia State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board. Representing the Virginia Association of Public Safety Officials (VA APCO), Madison will bring her extensive experience, dedication, and leadership in public safety and emergency medical services to this critical advisory body.
Madison's career in public safety exemplifies her unwavering commitment to the well-being of Virginia's communities. She began as a Fire EMS Dispatcher with Chesterfield Emergency Communications, where her exemplary work earned her numerous accolades, including a Life Save Award. Since 2018, Madison has served in Powhatan County, where her leadership has been transformative. Her initiatives to enhance training, develop peer support programs, and foster team resiliency have garnered recognition, including being named Powhatan County’s Dispatcher of the Year (2018) and receiving the Core Value Customer Service Award (2019).
In addition to her role in emergency communications, Madison has been a dedicated member of the Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad since 2013. She has held key leadership roles, including Assistant Chief (2020–2024) and Chief (2024–present), driving improvements and fostering a culture of excellence within the organization. Madison also serves as Treasurer of the Powhatan County Fire Association, further demonstrating her commitment to public service.
Her academic achievements include graduating summa cum laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Criminal Psychology, and her professional certifications include Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B), Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), and Critical
Incident Stress Management (CISM). Madison has also completed over 600 hours of first responder-based continuing education, underscoring her dedication to professional development.
As a representative for VA APCO, Madison will serve as a vital link between emergency communications and emergency medical services. VA APCO is a leading voice for 9-1-1 and public safety communications in Virginia, advocating for systems that support law enforcement, fire, and EMS agencies. Madison’s appointment ensures the perspectives and needs of the emergency communications community are well represented on the Advisory Board.
“Working Supervisor Madison Blaska has been a great team member for our department and will be outstanding EMS Board member. She is always willing to share with her knowledge, skills and ability with others. Madison could be counted on to get the job done right. Given her overall personality, the drive, spirit, and character that she embodies, I know she will be a success on this board as well.” Stated Director of Public safety Communications, Tom Nolan.
The Virginia State Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board provides recommendations to state leadership on EMS policy and programs, ensuring the highest standards of care and response for Virginia residents.