Austin-Travis County EMS Public Information Office

Austin-Travis County EMS PIO Team

The Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services Public Information Office is a 24/7 operation with very specific goals, objectives and values. Its primary mission is to serve as a conduit for the release of accurate and timely information from credible and accountable sources to the media and citizens of Travis County. In addition to showcasing the incredible delivery of care and service performed daily by our Medics, we also work closely with our Community Outreach and Injury Prevention team to increase safety awareness and educate the public on the vast amount of services provided by ATCEMS.

Meet our Team

Commander Mike Benavides began his career with Austin-Travis County EMS in 1993. He spent 20 years in the field, 13 of those as a Commander with our Special Operations section. Commander Benavides is the primary Public Information Officer and manages the PIO team. Contact Commander Benavides.

Captain Darren Noak began his career with Austin-Travis County EMS in 1995. He spent 20 years in the field, 16 of those assigned to our Special Operations section – 10 years as a Rescue Medic and 6 as a Rescue Captain. Captain Noak serves as a Deputy PIO and is our primary coordinator for Open Records Requests. Contact Captain Noak.

Captain Rick Rutledge began his career with Austin-Travis County EMS in 1999. He spent 15 years in the field, 8 years as a Rescue Medic with our Special Operations section, and 7 years as a Flight Rescue Medic with STARFlight. Captain Rutledge serves as a Deputy PIO and is our primary Legal Liaison. Contact Captain Rutledge.