Nicholas has been in emergency medicine since 1977. He has been an instructor in emergency services since 1983. He is a FAA Certified Flight Instructor, teaches FAA Safety Seminars, and a Fire Service Instructor. His teaching methods are upbeat and interactive (not lecture style).

He has served in various emergency services roles from a basic EMT to Firefighter Instructor; continually progressing through the ranks, to the position of Fire Chief. He is a certified Paramedic and continues to serve in emergency services today.