Mike Knipstein has been named the director of Williamson County Emergency Services. On Nov. 30 the county announced Senior Director of Emergency Services John Sneed had selected Knipstein who now serves as the deputy director.Knipstein has been with Williamson County EMS for 22 years and will take over for Kenny Schnell who retired in October.
“I am excited to continue my career with Williamson County EMS and take this next step,” Knipstein said in a statement. “Williamson County EMS is a preeminent pre-hospital provider, and I am humbled to lead such a great organization.”
Knipstein has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Western Governors University–Texas and is a licensed paramedic as well as a registered nurse. He lives in Round Rock with his wife, Heather, and their three daughters.
Knipstein will transition into the new role on Dec. 2.
Williamson County EMS Director Kenny Schnell to retire Nov. 3
Kenny Schnell, director of Williamson County Emergency Medical Services, announced his retirement this morning.
Kenny Schnell, director of Williamson County Emergency Medical Services, will retire Nov. 3.[/caption]Schnell began working for Williamson County in 1994 and has served as EMS director since 2008. His last day working with the county will be Nov. 3.
“Our EMS mission to respect, care and serve will always be in my DNA, and I will take that with me as I move forward in my next endeavor in life,” Schnell said. “I have complete faith that WCEMS will be prosperous as a leader in the industry and remain the outstanding provider in Williamson County as it has been for more than 40 years.”
During his time serving as EMS director, the division received several awards. In September, WCEMS was recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, becoming one of nine EMS systems out of 782 in the state to receive accreditation.
Schnell, who worked in several different positions throughout his career, including paramedic and station officer, was named EMS Administrator of the Year in 2014.
A reception will be held Oct. 28 from 3-6 p.m. at the Williamson County historic courthouse, 710 S. Main St., to honor Schnell.
The department said it hopes to have a replacement by the end of the year.
