Name and how long you have been in the industry.
Sheila M. O’Donnell
I started in healthcare over 30 years ago as a Sr. Buyer for University of Virginia Medical Center’s Replacement Hospital. As my career evolved, I entered the service industry with GE Healthcare. I love being in the healthcare technology management side of the business, especially the way it allows me to contribute to patient care through innovative technology.
Short background bio – How did you get into the industry? Anything that drew you in?
I was fortunate to spend seven years at UVA Medical Center, advancing to Associate Director of Purchasing. Over time, my active involvement with the National Association for Purchasing Management (NAPM), both locally and at the state level, caught the attention of a local GE business executive. I was recruited to GE with a personal goal to work for GE’s Healthcare sector, and that marked a truly fulfilling chapter. I spent fifteen rewarding years at GE, forever cherishing the experience and the countless opportunities it presented. To think that I would get such an amazing opportunity again at Crothall is hard to believe. The incredible people, the boundless opportunities, the can-do spirit, and the extraordinary resources at Crothall make it a truly remarkable place to be. My position as Sr. Vice President of the Technical Resource Group has been a dream job.
What milestones or contributing factors helped elevate you to where you are today?
My journey to where I am today has been shaped by several key milestones and factors. First and foremost, having the presence of great mentors, leaders, and team members along the way made a world of difference. Having someone who truly believes in you, who can identify your strengths and push you to develop them, is invaluable.
Another crucial factor was my willingness to embrace opportunities and say “yes” a lot. Saying “yes” to becoming a Six Sigma Master Black Belt, to relocation, to attending the Board of Visitors meeting, to honing my presentation skills – these moments, while sometimes requiring risk-taking, ultimately fueled my growth and self-confidence. Balancing confidence and risk-taking to say “yes” and trust yourself to try new things is critically important.
What roadblocks did you have to overcome?
I don’t necessarily think with a ‘roadblock’ mentality. I like to focus on solutions and keep my sights set on the horizon. However, when I look back, there is a moment that tested my spirit. Moving to a new city as a single mom, knowing no one, was a pivotal career opportunity but a big sacrifice for my kids. The position required frequent travel, which I embraced, but it was undeniably challenging. I brought in an Au Pair from Poland to live with us, so I had the flexibility that was needed. It was three years of hardship and reward. Today, my daughter tells me that experience – the move, the cultural exposure, the travel – sparked her own passion for travel and eventually living abroad. Hearing that, I know the choice, though difficult, ultimately paid off. I am so appreciative that she sees the good.
What do you feel makes a great leader in this industry?
I could answer this question in a hundred different ways. I believe curiosity is one of the most vital traits of a great leader. Curiosity leads to asking insightful questions, understanding diverse perspectives, and embracing innovative solutions – all crucial for success.
What advice do you have for the other women in HTM?
Trust your gut. Always, trust your gut.