Providing the foundation that allows exceptional patient care to happen every day.
Michelle joined the Lakes Region EMS family as an EMT-B in 2008. She served in this role for 6 years and transitioned into the Education and Community Outreach Manager in 2014. While serving as an EMT, she was awarded the American Ambulance Association Star of Life Award, in 2011. Michelle took on the role of the Director of Administration in 2019. In this role, she has increased efficiencies and streamlined processes by reorganizing workload and vetting new opportunities. Her dedication to EMS has led to serving on the Workforce and Cost Data Collection committees through the American Ambulance Association.
I’m Cassie Keocher, an HR Manager with a passion for building strong teams, streamlining people processes, and creating a workplace culture where everyone can thrive. I’ve led initiatives that improved how organizations handle benefits, compensation, compliance, and internal communication—always with an eye toward clarity, consistency, and the employee experience. I believe HR works best when it balances structure with empathy, and I bring that mindset to every challenge I take on. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Organization Development and Leadership to expand my ability to lead change, develop talent, and support organizations as they grow. Outside of work, I enjoy being hands-on wherever I can make a difference especially in my role as a mom and community volunteer. I also love spending time outdoors to recharge in nature.
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Emily Pinkston brings more than 20 years of accounting, financial management, and operational leadership experience to her role as Controller at Lakes Region EMS. With a background spanning nonprofit organizations, telecommunications, banking, and public accounting, Emily offers a well-rounded perspective on financial stewardship, organizational efficiency, and strategic planning. In her current role, Emily oversees the accounting and financial operations of Lakes, with a focus on financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, and long-term financial sustainability. Her experience includes financial forecasting, payroll administration, process improvement, and developing financial practices that support organizational growth and informed decision-making. Prior to joining Lakes Region EMS, Emily held leadership and accounting positions in a variety of industries, including serving in the C-suite of a telecommunications company and working in public accounting. These experiences helped shape her practical, solutions-oriented approach to financial management and her appreciation for the connection between strong financial operations and organizational success. Emily holds a Master of Arts in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with her husband and dogs, experimenting in the kitchen, playing video games, planning her next travel adventure, and cheering on Bath Rugby.
