A Conversation with Tom Allenstein: A Servant Leader with a Heart of Gold

Every so often, you meet someone whose passion and genuine kindness leave a lasting impact. That was the case when I had the opportunity to speak with Tom Allenstein, the President and CEO of MedFlight of Ohio. From our conversation, it was clear that Tom’s journey wasn’t just about advancing his career—it was about serving others with heart, compassion, and purpose.

Growing up in a small town 70 miles south of Rochester, Minnesota, Tom’s early life experiences shaped his outlook on service. He saw firsthand what people didn’t have, and it planted the seed for a life dedicated to helping others. Initially drawn to medicine, Tom pursued a pre-med track in college. But as he studied, he realized that the patient interaction he craved might not be fulfilled as a doctor. In a decision that would change his path, he turned to nursing, following in the footsteps of his two sisters who were already in the field.

The road from small-town Minnesota to the helm of MedFlight took many turns, each one marked by a desire to serve. Tom’s journey led him to Idaho, where he took a job in a small but growing hospital. He got involved in patient transport, flying patients from places like Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Salt Lake City—a role that opened his eyes to the world of air medical transport and the thrill of making a real difference in patients’ lives.

But the story didn’t stop there. Tom eventually returned to Minnesota to work at the renowned Mayo Clinic, where he joined their fledgling flight program as a nurse. He loved the challenge of providing care in a helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft, knowing his decisions had an immediate and profound impact on patients in critical situations. This role allowed him to combine his nursing skills with his passion for adventure, all while serving others during their most vulnerable moments.

After 15 years of flying and leading teams, Tom found himself at a crossroads. An opportunity opened up in Columbus, Ohio, with MedFlight, a nonprofit air and ground critical care transport organization. Even though he wasn’t initially selected for the Chief Operating Officer role, persistence paid off. Six months later, the organization called him back, recognizing they had made the wrong choice the first time around.

In 2004, Tom moved to Columbus, where he helped grow MedFlight into one of the leading medical transport organizations in the country. Under his leadership, the program expanded, purchased several of their own helicopters, and adopted a new approach to leadership: servant leadership. Tom believes deeply in this philosophy, which is all about empowering and supporting the people who are on the front lines. His goal is to give his team the tools they need to succeed and grow, because, as he says, “Our people are the ones doing the job—our job is to support them.”

It’s not just about the title or the responsibilities for Tom; it’s about creating a culture where everyone flourishes. He is committed to ensuring that MedFlight continues to provide exceptional care, not only for the patients they serve but also for the team that makes it all possible.

Tom’s journey, like the winding path of life itself, has been full of unexpected twists. He didn’t set out to be in aviation or lead a large organization. Yet, by trusting his instincts and embracing opportunities when they came, he found his calling in leadership. Today, even though he doesn’t get into the vehicles as much, he still sees his team’s incredible impact every day. And for him, that’s what matters most—knowing that his work continues to help others, even if from behind the scenes.

One of the most powerful moments in our conversation was when Tom talked about the emotional toll of his job. When you see a helicopter in the sky, it's often a symbol of someone’s worst day. Tom’s reminder? “Every time you see the helicopter, pray for the team. They’re out there taking care of people in their most desperate times. We’re the best part of someone’s worst day.” His words hit home. So often, we forget the humanity behind the life-saving work being done every day by medical professionals like Tom and his team. But for them, it’s not just a job—it’s a calling, one they answer with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others.

As our conversation came to a close, I asked Tom what the community could do to support MedFlight. His response was simple but profound: pray for them. He reminded me that while they operate as a nonprofit, and donations can always help, the real gift is recognizing the incredible work being done—whether it's during a medical emergency or at a local soccer game where MedFlight provides support.

Tom Allenstein’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is about more than just the title. It’s about service, humility, and a deep-rooted desire to make a difference in the lives of others. His journey—from small-town beginnings to leading one of the most impactful organizations in medical transport—reflects the beauty of life’s unexpected turns and the profound impact one person can have on so many.

If you ever see that MedFlight helicopter in the sky, take a moment to send a prayer or a thought of thanks. Because behind that helicopter is a team, led by a man like Tom, who has dedicated his life to being the best part of someone’s worst day.

To support MedFlight's mission and learn more about their work, visit their website at www.medflight.com.