Speakers

Stacia Rivera - Sr. Director EOC and Security Operations, Providence Swedish

Stacia has been in the healthcare field for over 20 years specializing in safety, emergency management, and security operations. She has a pragmatic approach with a heavy dose of innovation to help guide in an ever changing industry.

Lisa Welcome - Operations Manager, RESA Power

Lisa has been in the electrical industry for ten years with a heavy focus on electrical safety, compliance, and maintenance.

Abstract

Picture a below freezing November night where a hospital sleeps until an emergency event takes over. Join us in a unique conversation to discuss what an arc flash is, how to best prevent one from happening, all while reviewing a real life event in a healthcare environment.

Learning Objectives

• Understand arc flash causes
• Understand prevention tactics
• Understand where emergency preparedness coinscides with facilities management
• Understand the recovery process after an event of this magnitude

Roger Glick, MS, MBA, CEM, FACHE - Market Director: Healthcare + Emergency Management, Jensen Hughes

Roger is an emergency management expert with specific expertise in healthcare. Over 20 years in the industry, he has worked with rural Critical Access Hospitals, large academic medical centers, regional healthcare systems, healthcare coalitions, colleges and universities, and government organizations. He leads multi-disciplinary teams specializing in system preparedness, emergency response & recovery, program evaluation, Continuous Quality Improvement, and policy development and advocacy.

Roger is a respected industry leader, educator, and researcher. He has been a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) since 2009 and was elected to be the ACHE Regent for Virginia's Central and Tidewater regions from 2020-2023. He earned the International Association of Emergency Managers’ highest designation in 2009, the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM). He is a faculty member at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, with appointments in the Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine. He serves as an Executive Committee member of the National Pediatric Disaster Coalition. He has numerous peer-reviewed manuscripts and abstracts and has invited presentations.

Roger earned an MBA from James Madison University and a Master of Science from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and completed his undergraduate training at Bridgewater College.

Cody O'Connor, CFM, SFP, CHOP - Manager Facilities Engineering, UW Valley Medical Center

Cody O'Connor is the Facility Manager at Valley Medical Center. He has been with Valley over 2 years. Managing the day-day operations for the Facilities department.

Abstract - Download Presentation

Cyber attacks have become increasingly prevalent and sophisticated, posing significant operational challenges to organizations across various sectors. In this presentation, we explore the critical importance of preparing for the operational consequences of a cyber attack and discuss strategies and best practices to enhance resilience and response capabilities.

The session will begin by examining the evolving threat landscape and the potential impact of cyber attacks on operational continuity, including disruptions to essential services, supply chain disruptions, financial losses, and reputational damage. We will highlight real-world examples of cyber attacks and their operational consequences, underscoring the need for proactive preparedness measures.

Next, we will delve into key elements of an effective preparedness strategy: risk assessment, incident response planning, business continuity planning, and stakeholder engagement. Attendees will gain insights into conducting comprehensive risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities, prioritize mitigation efforts, and develop robust incident response plans to facilitate timely and coordinated responses to cyber incidents.

Furthermore, the presentation will explore the importance of integrating cybersecurity considerations into broader business continuity planning efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and regulatory requirements. Practical guidance will be provided on establishing communication protocols, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, and leveraging resources effectively to minimize operational disruptions in the aftermath of a cyber attack.

Throughout the session, emphasis will be placed on leadership commitment, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous improvement in building organizational resilience to cyber threats. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and practical strategies to enhance their organization's preparedness for the operational consequences of a cyber attack, ultimately safeguarding critical assets and maintaining operational continuity in an increasingly digital environment.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the operational impact of cyber attacks.
• Develop and implement effective cyber incident preparedness strategies.
• Enhance organizational resilience through leadership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Analyze real-world cyber attack examples to recognize vulnerabilities and the necessity of proactive preparedness.

Elisabeth Riehl - Plan Reviewer, Washington State Department of Health

Elisabeth Riehl is a Plan Reviewer for Construction Review Services at the Department of Health. Elisabeth has 15 years of experience in design, construction, and facility management, all starting with her experience as project coordinator for the construction of Swedish Hospital's Issaquah campus. She went on to hone her architectural and project management skills while working on the designs of historical preservation and civic building projects in the Greater Seattle Area prior to re-entering the healthcare industry on the owners side. She oversaw the design and construction of over 50 hospital and outpatient care facility projects and acted as a facilities compliance manager before joining the Department of Health early last year. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering her time as a Master Gardener in King County.

Abstract - Download Presentation

Effective March 17, 2025, Washington state formally adopted the 2022 edition of the FGI with state amendments. Learn about the major changes between the 2014 and 2022 editions, as well as how to navigate the different volumes the new FGI is broken out into. Also included is a brief update on work occurring at the Department of Health.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how to navigate the different volumes of the 2022 FGI.
• Learn about the major changes between the 2014 and 2022 FGI as adopted by Washington State
• Review updates to the CRS process and other work at the Department of Health
• Know the types of documents CRS commonly asks for

Craig Johnston - Facilities Manager, Swedish Cherry Hill Medical Center

Craig Johnston is the Facilities Manager of Swedish Cherry Hill Medical Center overseeing day-to-day operations, regulatory compliance, preventative maintenance, energy management, and infrastructure projects. He is a recent member addition to WSSHE since moving to Washinton State after providing several years of Facilities Management with another hospital organization.

Philip Kercher, CHFM, CHC, CEM, FASHE - Facilities Manager, Retired, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center

Philip Kercher retired in July 2015 after 33-years as Manager of Facilities at two different Providence campuses overseeing daily operations, regulatory compliance, energy management, sustainability and numerous infrastructure projects. He is an ASHE Fellow and recipient of the Bronze Eagle Award. He is WSSHE’s longest serving member at 43-years and continues to be active having served two terms as State President and twice received the Member of the Year Award.

Abstract

In April 2011, Sacred Heart Facilities learned legionella bacteria was found at the hospital. Mr. Kercher will describe what happened in the opening days of concern as information was gathered and actions taken to respond to this significant event. Subsequent long term solutions were implemented. Getting there was quite a story! Current practices will also be reviewed as well as lessons learned.

Learning Objectives

• Attendees can identify causes of Legionella bacteria and ways to reduce risk
• Attendees can identify effective communication tools during a crisis
• Attendees can understand the need for an effective team to prepare for and respond to the situation
• Attendees can use lessons learned and apply to other situations

Tessa Fox, Assoc. DBIA, NCIDQ - Design Integration Manager, Andersen Construction

Tessa Fox, Assoc. DBIA, is the Design Integration Manager at Andersen Construction in Seattle, with over 11 years of experience in designing human-centered spaces that elevate the design and construction industry. Known for her collaborative approach, Tessa works closely with design teams and project stakeholders from the outset, building strong partnerships between owners, consultants, and trade partners to deliver exceptional solutions. She has played a key role in the successful integration of diverse consultant teams on high-profile projects such as Harborview, WSU, Providence, and CHI Franciscan.

Jay Harrell - Senior Project Manager, McKinstry

Jay has 25 years of experience in the electrical industry, with emphasis on Bio-Med, healthcare, and research facilities.

Completed electrical apprenticeship in 2005.
Graduate from Clemson University in 1993.

Peregrin Jones, DBIA, LEED AP - Studio Leader, P2S

Peregrin Jones is a healthcare project manager for P2S related to MEP engineering. He has worked in healthcare engineering for 20 years. Much of this experience is within existing occupied facilities. He enjoys working in collaborative team environments, especially with progressive design-build delivery.

Abstract - Download Presentation

This presentation will explore the advantages of using a design-build approach for Trauma 1 hospital renovations, focusing on key elements that ensure project success. Topics will include effective phasing strategies to minimize disruption to critical hospital operations, the importance of MEP coordination for seamless integration of systems, and best practices for shutdown procedures and managing USR's. Additionally, we will discuss the tools and technologies that support efficient project delivery, and share valuable lessons learned from past renovations to improve future outcomes. By highlighting these essential aspects, we’ll demonstrate how the design-build method fosters collaboration, accelerates timelines, and meets the unique challenges of hospital environments.

Learning Objectives

• Phasing Strategies to minimize disruption
• MEP Coordination for seamless integration
• Best practices for shutdown procedures and managing USR's
• Tools and technologies that support efficient project delivery

Rob Siefken - COO, Safeguards3

Rob Siefken is currently the Chief Operating Officer at Safeguards3, where he focuses on enhancing operational excellence within the organization. In addition to his leadership role at Safeguards3, Mr. Siefken’s career is distinguished by an impressive dual trajectory. He dedicated two decades of service to the U.S. Army Special Forces before transitioning to a 21-year tenure within the Department of Energy's (DOE) safeguards and security domain. 17 of those years were at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL).

Mr. Siefken is a respected member of the North American Electricity Reliability Corporation’s (NERC) Electricity Information Sharing and Analysis Center (E-ISAC) and serves on the Physical security Advisory Group since 2018. His commitment to the electricity sector is further demonstrated by his delivery of E-ISAC-sponsored vulnerability analysis and risk management workshops for the North America. Mr. Siefken is also an integral member of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council’s physical security forum.

Mr. Siefken's exceptional careers, marked by unwavering dedication and significant achievements, continue to influence and advance the fields of safeguards, security, training, and operational excellence. He remains a respected leader and key figure within the industry.

Abstract - Download Presentation

This session will cover a time-tested and proven vulnerability analysis and risk management tool and methodology. This is a systematic, methodical, and repeatable process that involves an integrated team. The well-documented results from this analysis will give security, facility, and risk managers the ability to make informed risk-based decisions on security upgrades and also know where they have to accept risk.

Learning Objectives

• Understand what a Design Basis Threat (DBT) is and how it is developed
• Determine what the unacceptable consequences are for your facility
• Determine who should be on the analysis team
• Understand how the VISA tool and methodology are used in the analysis

Danny Scott - Director of Facilities, Snoqualmie Valley Health

Danny Scott is a healthcare facilities professional with 12 years of experience spent in critical access facilities. He is currently the Director of Facilities at Snoqualmie Valley health and is responsible for the physical environment, construction security, and EVS. Danny has been a member of WSSHE the entirety of his healthcare career and has held multiple board positions in the Southwest and Puget Sound chapters, before serving as state president in 2025. Family, sports and the great outdoors is where he loves to spend his time. As a native of Southern California, there’s just one thing to say… Go Dodgers!

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