On Veterans Day, we pause to honor the courage, sacrifice and service of the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. At WellSpan Health, we’re proud to work alongside veterans whose dedication and leadership continue to inspire us every day.
To all our veteran colleagues: thank you. Your contributions — both in service and here at work — make a lasting impact. We’re grateful for your strength, your stories and your example.
This year, we wanted to go beyond a simple thank-you. We sat down with a few of our veteran team members to learn more about their experiences and perspectives. Here’s what they shared:
Joel Balli
Medical Laboratory Technician III
Q:What role did you have in the military and how did that cross over to civilian life?
A:
For the majority of my 10 years in the United States Navy, I served as a Medical Laboratory Technician. I am very appreciative that the military gave me the opportunity to learn this profession, because it made my transition to civilian life so much easier. I started interviewing with hospitals and was offered a job with WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital in November of 2023 prior to my separation in March of 2024.
Nina Wyatt
Advanced Practice Provider
Q:What role did you have in the military and how did that cross over to civilian life?
A:
I was a cook (94B) in the U.S. Army. I joined after graduating high school. I was deployed to Somalia in 1993 for Operation Restore Hope. I received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for my time in the military. On deployment, I was able to visit United Nations feeding stations and medical treatment for the Somalians. I was inspired by how many lives were saved by these selfless people.
Q:How did your military experience influence your decision to pursue a career in healthcare?
A:
My time in service inspired me to pursue a career in the medical field and to care for others. The GI Bill enabled me to go to college when I separated from the military. The military taught me teamwork, dedication and the value of service.
Kristie Bunn-Kingston
Information Technology Systems and Storage Senior Architect
Q:How did your military experience influence your career path in healthcare IT?
A:
My MOS was Telecommunications Computer Operator Maintainer. I feel that the training and experience gained while in the Army helped me enter the IT field. When I transitioned from active duty - I was hired as a computer specialist at Winn Army Community Hospital at Fort Stewart. I’ve been in health care IT ever since.
Missi Dehoff
Manager - Clinical Operations
Q:Do you feel a level of support for military vets here at WellSpan? How so?
A:
WellSpan truly values and supports its veterans. From recognizing service members during special events and holidays to fostering a workplace culture built on teamwork, respect and integrity, the same core values we lived by in the Air Force, that support really stands out. There’s a strong sense of community here at WellSpan.
Susan Dillman
Registered Nurse
Q:How does WellSpan support and value its military veteran employees?
A:
WellSpan shows a high level of respect for our military veterans, recognizing our training received and the carry-over of the discipline instilled upon us. This is what helps in following protocols to the “T”!
Luis Rosado
Supply Chain Logistics and Distribution
Q:What advice would you give to someone looking to leave the military and transition into a civilian role in health care?
A:
The advice I would give to someone transitioning from the military into a civilian role in health care is to understand that it’s normal to feel stressed or anxious when leaving an organization you’ve dedicated so much of your life to. The transition can be challenging, but health care offers a strong sense of purpose and a supportive environment where you can continue to make a meaningful impact. At WellSpan, you’ll find people who genuinely care about you and your well-being.
John Brunner
Medical Equipment Information System Specialist Lead
Q:What key qualities or habits from military service should veterans emphasize when transitioning to civilian roles in healthcare?
A:
The best advice I can give someone that’s transitioning out of the military and going into civilian life is, remember what the military taught you about team work, hard work and dedication and being punctual. These are all great work qualities that any health care company will be looking for and expect.
Kim Bade
Nursing Professional Development Practitioner
Q:What advice would you give to someone transitioning from military service into a civilian role at WellSpan?
A:
When transitioning into a civilian role be proud of your service and know your past experience is a huge benefit in any role here at WellSpan bringing commitment, accountability and attention to detail in all we do as these are attributes that we live by in the military as well as a deep respect for all.
Veterans are Welcome at WellSpan
As a veteran-ready employer, we are committed to hiring and supporting military and veteran employees. We offer many civilian career opportunities that match your military background, skills and interests. Do you want to transition to health care? Your military experience has given you a strong foundation of trust, dedication and kindness. Here are some resources to get you started:
Translate your military background
into the civilian workforce. Join our talent community for veterans.
Share your attributes with us when you apply.
Team members and applicants can voluntarily and confidentially share their identity attributes with WellSpan, including military experience. This helps us identify trends, conditions or disparities felt by our team members, remove barriers in our policies and practices and create action plans to ensure opportunities to excel.
Need help translating your military skills? Contact our Talent Acquisition team at careers@wellspan.org.