Carly Strong is a seasoned EMS executive with over two decades of experience spanning field operations, system leadership and organizational transformation. She currently serves as chief operating officer for LifeLine EMS in Southern California, where she oversees operations, communications and strategic growth initiatives across a complex, high-volume service area.
Carly began her career as a firefighter-EMT with the U.S. Forest Service and progressed through the ranks as a paramedic, field training officer and operations leader. She also served as a tactical medic; becoming the first female tactical medic on her team — further expanding her experience in high-acuity, high-risk environments. Her career reflects a deep understanding of both front-line care and executive-level decision-making, allowing her to bridge operational complexity with human-centered leadership.
Prior to joining LifeLine, Carly served as chief operating officer for SEMSA/Riggs Ambulance Service, where she led large-scale system improvements, implemented innovative deployment models, and played a key role in high-profile EMS contract strategy and performance optimization.
Known for her ability to bring clarity to complex systems, Carly focuses on aligning operational excellence with culture, accountability and purpose. She is passionate about developing leaders, strengthening workforce engagement, and building sustainable EMS systems that deliver both high performance and meaningful employee experience.
Carly is an active voice in the EMS industry as a columnist for EMS1, a board member of the California Ambulance Association, and a national speaker on leadership, system design, and organizational transformation. She was recognized as an American Ambulance Association “40 Under 40” honoree and holds an MBA in Rural Healthcare.
