Early Beginnings

Joe Handley was born on August 9, 1943, in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan.

Pre-Political Life

Before he entered politics, Joe Handley taught in schools throughout Saskatchewan, eventually becoming an Assistant Professor at several universities, including the University of British Columbia (UBC) and the University of Manitoba. He also served as a superintendent in Manitoba for nine years and he spent time as a lecturer in Ghana, West Africa.

In 1985, Handley moved to the Northwest Territories to assume the position of Deputy Minister of Education with the Government of the Northwest Territories. He subsequently served as the Deputy Minister for the Departments of Renewable Resources, Transportation and Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development as well as the President of the NWT Housing Corporation.

Political Life

Handley was first elected to the Legislative Assembly as the Member for Weledeh in the 14th Legislative Assembly in 1999. In January 2000, he was appointed Minister of Finance, Chairman of the Financial Management Board and Minister Responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board. In November 2001, Handley was appointed Minister of Transportation and Minister Responsible for the NWT Power Corporation. In December 2003, the Honourable Joe Handley was acclaimed Premier of the Northwest Territories.

Personal and Community Life

Handley and his wife Theresa reside in Yellowknife. They have two children and four grandchildren.