Published on July 22, 2010

Southern Regional Health System Director Honored by American Society for Healthcare Engineering

Joe Baker, Director of Plant Operations and Engineering, Receives Emerging Regional Leader Award

Southern Regional Health System congratulates Joe Baker, Director of Plant Operations and Engineering, for receiving the Emerging Regional Leader Award from the American Society for Healthcare Engineering of the American Hospital Association (ASHE).  Baker accepted the award in Tampa, Fla. on July 12 at the organization's annual conference.

"Under Joe's leadership, we've reduced operational costs in plant operations every year since 2005 while continuing to maintain a safe environment, compliant with all hospital codes and standards," said James E. Crissey, Vice President of Facilities & Support Services.  "That's certainly an impressive record; this award is well-deserved."

ASHE annually awards 10 Emerging Regional Leader Awards, one from each ASHE region. Baker and Southern Regional are members of Region 4, covering Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi and the Caribbean.  As a recipient of this year's award, Baker is invited to attend ASHE's annual leadership training program and to serve as a volunteer on ASHE business development committees, both of which will significantly impact the organization's future direction.

"It is an honor to recognize Joe for his commitment to the field with this award," said ASHE President, Terry Martin, CHFM, SASHE.  "He exemplifies outstanding leadership qualities and shows a true commitment to our profession and will continue to be instrumental in helping ASHE grow as an organization."

Baker has worked at Southern Regional Health System since 1998.  He is responsible for Plant Operations, Safety and Security, Clinical Equipment Services, Parking and Grounds and all construction activities.  Prior to joining Southern Regional, Baker worked with WellStar and Cobb General Hospital.  He is NPDES Certified, certified in EPA Refrigerant Transition and recovery and has a Georgia Electrical Contractor License.

About American Society for Healthcare Engineering

The American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) is one of the personal membership groups of the American Hospital Association (AHA). ASHE represents a diverse network of more than 10,000 members dedicated to optimizing the healthcare physical environment. For information on ASHE, go to www.ashe.org.