Our Board of Directors
Bender Safety & Training Corporation is guided by a passionate and dedicated Board of Directors, each bringing diverse experience from emergency medical services, community outreach, public health, and nonprofit leadership. Together, they provide strategic oversight, uphold our mission, and ensure the highest standards of transparency, accessibility, and public service.
Tyler Bender – President
Founder, Paramedic, EMS Instructor
Tyler Bender’s journey into emergency services began long before earning his first uniform. Born in Arizona and placed in foster care due to early family struggles, he was adopted at age eight and raised on a small farm in rural Pennsylvania. Through 4-H, FFA, and a tight-knit community, he learned the value of service and resilience. His path to EMS was sparked by a life-changing moment: watching paramedics attempt to save a child in cardiac arrest at a local fair. From that moment, Tyler knew his purpose was to help others during their most critical moments. Though his first attempt at an EMT program didn’t go as planned, Tyler’s determination led him to return stronger, later earning his National Registry Paramedic certification. Over the years, he’s worked through the COVID-19 pandemic, taught countless classes, and overcame personal medical challenges, including a seizure disorder and a serious car accident that required months of rehabilitation.
Tyler became an American Red Cross CPR instructor in 2019 and a Pennsylvania EMS Instructor in 2022. He now holds multiple instructor credentials, including:
- CPR/AED (AHA & ARC)
- ACLS & PALS (AHA)
- Babysitting Certification (Red Cross)
- Pennsylvania EMS Continuing Education
Driven by a passion for access and equity in EMS education, Tyler founded Bender Safety & Training Corporation, a nonprofit committed to removing barriers to lifesaving training. The organization provides CPR, first aid, babysitting courses, and scholarships for aspiring EMS professionals. Tyler is very thankful for his friends, family, and coworkers who have supported him along the way.
Tyler’s mission is simple but powerful:
“Everyone can save a life. Because when seconds count, training makes the difference.”
Jamie Gillen – Vice President
Emergency Medical Technician, Training Advocate, Compliance & Leadership
Jamie Gillen brings decades of experience in healthcare administration, nonprofit finance, and public safety to her role as Vice President of Bender Safety & Training Corporation. She currently serves as the Executive Director of Cameron County Ambulance and is an active EMT with St. Mary’s Ambulance. In addition to her leadership roles, Jamie is a certified American Heart Association and BLS instructor, passionately committed to empowering future responders with the skills and confidence to save lives.
With a strong background in nonprofit operations, Jamie offers expertise in budgeting, billing, fundraising, and organizational management, all of which are vital to the growth and sustainability of Bender Safety & Training. Known to many in the community as “Grandma J,” her warmth, wisdom, and mentorship make her a beloved figure across generations.
Jamie's personal mission is to help build Bender Safety & Training into a great and impactful organization — one that changes lives through education, preparedness, and community connection.
When she’s not serving her community or teaching, Jamie loves cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events and helping shape the future of EMS.
Keegan Rowland – Treasurer
LPN, Public Safety & Health, Research
Keegan Rowland is a Licensed Practical Nurse with a strong background in internal medicine and infectious disease, currently working with TruCare. His clinical experience includes podiatry, wound care, and the management of hepatitis B and C. Passionate about improving access to quality education in healthcare, Keegan was inspired to join the board after recognizing the widespread lack of training availability in many clinical settings.
As Treasurer of Bender Safety & Training Corporation, Keegan brings expertise in healthcare, public safety, and nonprofit development. He is dedicated to expanding training opportunities for healthcare workers and the broader community. Keegan also enjoys contributing to fundraising and research efforts that support public health initiatives.
With a sharp financial mind and a commitment to community impact, Keegan is proud to support the organization’s mission to deliver accessible and lifesaving education across Central Pennsylvania.
Jacqueline Solic – Secretary
Former Emergency Medical Technician & 911 Telecommunicator, Emergency Managment, Community Engagement & Compliance
Jaclyn Zuback – Member At-Large
Emergency Medical Technician, Medical Assistant, Former 911 Telecommunicator
Our Board is committed to making lifesaving education available to everyone, and to building stronger, more prepared communities across Pennsylvania and beyond.
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