Rescue Ready Education is a nonprofit Firefighter founded and operated organization committed to providing accessible, high-quality emergency medical training to underserved communities and under-resourced fire and EMS departments. Our mission is to empower individuals through elite education to help close the gap in qualified personnel. Supporting the vital work of public emergency medical services and strengthening community resilience.

Our Board of Directors was hand selected for their expertise in emergency medicine and passion for education.

President: Gabe Rios

Gabe has proudly served the Tolleson community for nearly 20 years currently as a Fire Captain Paramedic. His career in public safety began even earlier as a reserve firefighter in Tolleson and Guadalupe, along with working on an ambulance in EMS. Over the years, he has responded to countless emergencies, always bringing leadership, compassion, and skill to those in need.

Gabe is currently finishing his degree in Fire Emergency Management, continuing his lifelong commitment to learning and growth. His dedication to the fire service and to preparing the next generation of responders makes him a trusted leader and a valued member of our board.

Vice President: George (Hap) Reitz

Hap has spent more than 30 years serving others as a first responder and community leader. He retired as an engineer from Surprise Fire-Medical Department, where his career included roles as a paramedic, wildland Engine Boss, and HALO flight medic. Hap also volunteered with Tucson Search & Rescue (SARA), helping save lives in challenging terrain.

Beyond emergency response, Hap dedicated time to strengthening healthcare and safety in the community. He helped run the Baby Shot Immunization Program in Surprise for six years and served on the Arizona Medical Emergency Services (AMES) committee. His heart for service and wealth of experience make him an incredible asset to our mission and the people we serve.

Secretary/Treasurer: Brooke Taylor

Brooke has been caring for people in the West Valley for more than eight years. She first started her journey in emergency medicine as an EMT, and her passion for helping others led her to become a Registered Nurse. Today, she works in the Emergency Department at Banner, where she uses her skills and calm presence to support patients and families during some of their toughest moments.

Education has always been important to Brooke. She holds two bachelor’s degrees—one in Psychology from Siena University in New York, and another in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing. She is also TNCC certified, which helps her provide the best possible care in emergency situations.

Brooke’s heart for service, combined with her professional experience, makes her a strong voice on our board. She is dedicated to improving healthcare access and building healthier, safer communities.

Medical Director: Dr. Jason Grimsman DO FACEP

Dr. Jason Grimsman has dedicated more than 14 years to caring for patients and leading in the field of emergency medicine. After earning his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Midwestern University, he went on to complete his Emergency Medicine Residency at Tufts University School of Medicine. Today, he oversees an Emergency Department in the West Valley and serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, where he helps train and mentor the next generation of physicians.

His career has also included specialized training as an Emergency Ultrasound Fellow and important work on harm reduction in the emergency department setting.

Dr. Grimsman’s expertise, combined with his passion for education and community health, makes him an invaluable part of our team. He brings not only medical knowledge but also a deep commitment to preparing future providers and improving emergency care for all.

Executive Director/ Lead Educator: Courtney Rios

Courtney Rios has spent over 10 years serving the community in many roles, including EMT, 911 dispatcher, emergency department staff, and EMS educator. For the past eight years, she has shared her passion for teaching with future first responders, helping her students achieve excellent first-time pass rates. Courtney holds a BA in Leadership. Her heart for service and dedication to education drive her work in building strong pathways for the next generation of emergency providers.