Elisabeth “Lis” Handgraaf began her career with Bell Ambulance in 2015 as a Paramedic and earned her Critical Care Paramedic license later that year. She became a Field Training Officer in 2016, was promoted to ALS Supervisor in 2018, and after leading the Education and Training Department as Coordinator since 2021, she was promoted to Deputy Director in 2025.

As Deputy Director, Lis leads a talented team of Educators and Field Training Officers who manage onboarding, continuing education, and license-level advancement for EMS personnel. She also oversees the Quality Assurance team and has been a strong advocate for mental health and resiliency within the EMS workforce.

Lis was honored as a 2017 American Ambulance Association Star of Life and, in 2024, was selected to participate in the AAA’s EMSNext Program, reflecting her dedication to leadership, innovation, and workforce development in EMS.

Outside of work, Lis enjoys spending time with her husband, Richard, and their Bluetick Coonhound, Dottie.