Maureen Gremminger,
EVS Resident Regional Manager, Inspira Health Network, Murica Hill, NJ
Before joining Crothall’s training program in 2012, I was an office manager at a mobile company. At that time, I met Joce-Lyn Hanton, the operations manager.
She is so inspiring. She knows everything about cleaning. I was here for the first few months and I wish I could be like her. The directors at that time were almost everyone, so seeing and learning from her gave me the confidence to succeed. Even if I don’t have a background in housework, that doesn’t mean I can’t figure it out.
While I have built up great achievements in my career now, I continue to find support and inspiration from other women in other senior roles. Christine Racobaldo has always been my rock. She is the one I call when I need someone who has expertise on certain issues.
It is important to note that from the very beginning, I felt this was a company that supported me. As part of the training, I went to Wayne’s corporate office for two weeks and I watched how people interact with each other.
I learned that not everyone has a homework or operational background and they have succeeded. There is no cookie cutter method, no ideal manager or candidate. The company does want to build a diverse team.
Now, 13 years later, women are taking key leadership roles throughout the company. After taking up operations positions with several regional business leaders, I managed a Sixth Hospital system that included a team of 13 managers and 11 were women. It’s a great feeling to know that our hard work translates into our responsibility for the performance of the company and have opportunities for sustained growth.
Why training is important
I focus on training at all levels – new employees, new managers and managers hope to improve. I believe our company can only succeed as well as the next generation of leaders. Focusing on them remains a priority.
It is important to convey the correct message to each group. For example, when I teach our frontline upgrade courses for new managers or frontline employees to take on new roles, I talk about the importance of leadership skills.
I strengthened the concept between manager and leader. Leaders motivate their team to perform at the highest level and help patients gain better experience during their stay. One of the most satisfying parts of my job is watching many of them move forward and find jobs as assistant directors and directors.
I also worked for several years, developing and perfecting our new hire training program. This is one of the challenges that made my work so interesting.
During the first few weeks of work, we hope to provide the best experience for the frontline housekeeper. We want to develop their confidence and help them understand that they are indeed valuable assets.
On every level, I also make sure people see how much potential a long and fulfilling career has. Electric vehicles are a growing field. It no longer just sweeps, hauls and wipes things. Now, preventing infection is so important. It is crucial that the butler understands our detailed cleaning process and how to keep everyone in the hospital safe.
Life outside the office
Everything my family does is what I want. I spent a lot of time with my father, sister and two of the loveliest nieces in the world. Family is the most important aspect of my life.
I will take this opportunity to get close to the ocean so a day trip to the beach will work as well. But essentially, I’m really a craftsman. Cricket making household decor items. I love baking and cooking. Making sour bread is my new passion, although I am really famous for cupcakes. Especially the vanilla cake and vanilla butter butter frosting.
