Women’s History Month Spotlight: Maureen Gremminger

Maureen Gremminger,

EVS Resident Regional Manager, Inspira Health Network in Mullica Hill, New Jersey

I was an office manager at a moving company before joining Crothall’s Manager in Training program in 2012. At that time, I met Joce-Lyn Hanton, who was an operations manager. 

She was so inspirational; she knew everything about cleaning.  The first several months I was here, I wished I could be like her. The directors back then were almost all men, so watching and learning from her gave me the confidence I could succeed. Even though I didn’t have a background in housekeeping, it didn’t mean I couldn’t figure it out. 

While I’m well established in my career now, I’ve continued to find support and inspiration from other women in senior-level roles. Christine Racobaldo has always been that rock for me. She’s the person I call when I need someone with expertise on certain issues. 

It’s important to note that, from the start, I felt this was a company that would support me. As part of my training, I went to the corporate office in Wayne for two weeks, and I watched how people interacted with each other.  

I learned that not everybody had a housekeeping or operational background, and they were successful. There was no cookie cutter approach, no ideal manager or candidate. The company was really looking to build a diverse team. 

Now, 13 years later, women have key leadership roles throughout our company.  After working in operational roles with several Regional Directors of Operations, I manage a six-hospital system that includes a team of 13 managers – and 11 are women. It’s a great feeling to know our hard work translates into a career where we are responsible for the company’s performance and there are opportunities for continued growth. 

Why Training Is Important

I focus on training at all levels – new hires, new managers and managers looking to advance. I believe that our company can only be as successful as the next generation of leaders. Focusing on them continues to be a priority. 

It’s important to communicate the right message to each group. For example, when I teach our Front Line Elevate class for new managers or front-line staff moving into new roles, I talk about the importance of leadership skills. 

I reinforce the concept between a manager and a leader. A leader motivates their team to perform at the highest level and helps the patient have a better experience during their stay. One of the most gratifying parts of my job is watching so many of these people move ahead, getting jobs as assistant directors and directors.   

I’ve also worked for several years developing and refining our new hire training program.  This is one of the challenges that makes my job so interesting. 

In those first few weeks on the job, we want to give front-line housekeepers the best possible experience. We want to develop their confidence and help them understand that they are truly a valuable asset. 

At all levels, I also make sure people see how much potential there is for a long and fulfilling career.  EVS is a growing field.  It’s no longer just sweep, mop, and wipe things down. Now, infection prevention is so important. It’s critical that housekeepers understand our detailed cleaning process and how it keeps everyone in the hospital safe.   

Life Outside of the Office

Anything my family is doing is where I want to be. I spend plenty of time with my father, sister, and the world’s cutest two nieces. Family is the most important aspect of my life.  

I’ll take any opportunity to be near the ocean, so a day trip to the beach also works. But at heart, I’m really a crafter. Cricket to make household décor items.  And I like to bake and cook.  Making sourdough bread is my new passion, though I’m really famous for my cupcakes. Especially vanilla cupcakes with vanilla butter cream icing.