Del Sol Medical Center is the first hospital in the El Paso region to partner with Hiring Our Heroes―an initiative launched by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to help prepare, recruit and empower retired veterans as they transition from the military to the workforce and civilian life.
Veterans who choose to enlist in the program will get exclusive on-the-job training at Del Sol Medical Center, gaining firsthand experience in a private-sector hospital.
Chris Lindner, the first fellow to participate in the program at Del Sol Medical Center, said the Hiring Our Heroes program has greatly improved his skills. Lindner, a soon-to-be-retired U.S. Army nurse, said he hopes more veterans will take advantage of the opportunity.
"After serving in the Army for 28 years, I'm well-versed in understanding the military setting. The Hiring Our Heroes program has helped me clearly understand the unique difference between managing a hospital verses managing a military setting," he said. "I am grateful for the opportunity that has been given to me from my command team at Fort Bliss and the leadership team at Del Sol Medical Center. They've warmly welcomed me and treated me like a valued team member from the first day I arrived."
Lindner's fellowship responsibilities include serving as a veteran liaison between Del Sol Medical Center and William Beaumont Army Medical Center, learning the governance of the private sector and executive staff, as well as understanding the unique capabilities of various services in the hospital that support patient care and outcomes.
KVIA-TV recently interviewed Lindner and Brian Allen, chief operating officer at Del Sol Medical Center and former military healthcare administrator with the U.S. Air Force, about the program.