Scottsdale EMS Captain Named Lead To National Disaster Aid Team

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Capt. Mike Norling of the Scottsdale Fire Department Emergency Medical Services has a new role under his belt.

Norling was named the Arizona commander of the National Disaster Medical Assistance Team on Tuesday.

“Mike is a strong leader, and his knowledge of emergency scene management and paramedicine is extensive,” Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon said in a statement. “It makes sense to have him selected to this position. We are extremely proud of him.”

Norling's new role will include two 14-day deployments during national emergencies such as hurricanes, and he will assist with COVID-19 vaccine clinics and other large events, according to a department announcement.

Norling will oversee 90 people assigned to the team in addition to coordinating daily operations, deployments and training, the department said.

The Disaster Medical Assistance teams provide patient care when requested by statewide authorities, localities, tribes and territories.

The department is deployed after disasters and emergencies and aids in the prevention of disease outbreaks, the release said.

Norling and his team will serve under the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response.