Joe Kellner
Joe Kellner stepped into the role of CEO of LifeFlight of Maine on October 1, 2023, with years of experience as a paramedic, expertise in EMS operations, a deep understanding of healthcare policy, and a dedication to building world-class EMS systems to improve healthcare outcomes.
While studying for a degree in German at the University of Maine, Joe approached the local volunteer ambulance service to learn where he could find an EMT course, mostly to acquire some basic skills should they become necessary. The on-duty crew convinced him to do an observation shift on the ambulance, and he was hooked.
Over his twenty-year career, he has worked for EMS agencies of all types, including volunteer, municipal, private, and healthcare system-based. He has served in various roles, including EMS clinician, educator, supervisor, director, service chief, and as the senior leader of Northern Light Medical Transport, one of the largest ambulance services in the State of Maine. Since 2012, Joe has also served as the chief operating officer of MedComm, a state-wide ground and air ambulance communications center, which dispatches LifeFlight crews in addition to other services.
With a strong interest in advocacy and policy, Joe served on the Maine EMS board for seven years under appointments from both Governors Lepage and Mills, including a term as its chair. He regularly testifies on EMS issues before the Maine legislature and has advocated nationally on issues facing EMS.
Most recently, Joe served as chief financial officer for LifeFlight of Maine, while simultaneously working as vice president of finance, operations, and strategy at Northern Light Home Care and Hospice and Northern Light Medical Transport.
Joe earned both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration degrees from the University of Maine in Orono. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a licensed paramedic in Maine. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work in EMS, and in 2023 he was named to Mainebiz’s “40 Under 40.” He lives in Windham with his wife, Caitlin, and their two boys, Elliott and Leland.
