During a recent interview discussing AAMI/GE Healthcare BMET of the Year Award winner Demetrius Dillard, one of his mentors stated that one of his greatest attributes to his department and the biomed industry is his close relationship with the C-suite. We often hear that clinical engineering departments are still not included in decision-making processes. Visibility remains one of the biggest struggles for biomed departments. Dillard integrated himself with the decision-makers of his facility through proactive engagement and hard work—even now, as he currently works toward his MBA.

Dillard showed foresight by engaging the C-suite early in his career. Have you or any members of your team make a concerted effort to connect with the hospital decision-makers in order to improve the department’s standing? If so, what were some of the steps you/they took to improve this relationship?