Bronco Spotlight: Courtney Stevens

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Bachelor of Science, industrial engineering, 2004

Director of Virtual Care at Henry Ford Health System

I am responsible for the overall management of HFHS telemedicine/virtual care strategy to support barrier free access to Henry Ford services through technology for patients seeking care and external providers seeking consultation services.  I am also responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, supporting, directing, and evaluating the strategy and all activities of the HFHS virtual healthcare services. This includes the direction and leadership of operational, financial, programmatic and personnel activities for HFHS virtual care, as well as the development and execution of the HFHS virtual care (telemedicine) footprint, consistent with broader strategic goals. I work closely with a variety of stakeholders, coordinating the identification and deployment of new telemedicine technologies and supportive strategies across the enterprise, with an emphasis on optimizing customer access and convenience.

What is the most rewarding and the most challenging part of your job?

Most rewarding is the opportunity to develop and implement new processes and avenues of care within healthcare, helping departments offer the next era of service to our patients. Most challenging is the unknown and forging new territory, which often requires you to take a few steps back once you have finally made some progress.

If you had a campus job or internship, how did they impact your career development?

As a student I was a professor assistant, which taught me time management, professionalism and delegation.  This was a great opportunity to earn the trust of my superiors (at this time, my professors), but also stretch my skills in project management.  During my last summer before graduation I receive an internship with an automotive parts supplier.  This opportunity taught me how to be an employee and an adult.  This included things like working with a manager, working with a client, the hierarchy of responsibility, and my work style and ethics.  I formed strong bonds during this first internship, and ultimately landed my first job, but it also opened my eyes to real careers and ultimately what I did and did not want to do for a living.

What advice do you have for others pursuing a career similar to yours?

Find internships and opportunities to try different jobs in your field before you graduate.  Also, don't underestimate the power and importance of the after skills classes, like project management and writing, versus the technical classes.  As these courses can be the difference between an engineering career and a management career.  Also, network and make relationships.  You never know who might help you get your next great break or opportunity.  That includes classmates, professors, friends and co-workers. 

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