Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Trevor Mayberry has embraced new challenges while growing at Jennie Edmundson

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Trevor Mayberry
Director of Facility Operations
Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital

Tell us about yourself.

I’m the director of facility operations at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital.

I’m responsible for all grounds, maintenance and plant operations, and I diligently work to ensure compliance with Life Safety and Environment of Care regulatory standards.  

I’ve been in the facilities realm for over 13 years, seven of them as a director. I began my journey in facilities as a storekeeper and managed all supplies, maintenance materials and equipment for my previous facility. I was promoted to a public service supervisor role and managed EVS and transportation. After two years, I was promoted director/public service manager. I joined the Jennie Edmundson team in 2022.

My wife’s name is Jenni, and I have two sons: Davis and Damon. I have a motor home that I like to use with my family for road trips and vacations. Up until my son started in high school, I coached all of the youth sports he participated in – primarily football and baseball. I enjoyed that opportunity and appreciated seeing him and his friends growing in their relationships and maturity. 

I served in the Iowa National Guard from 2004 to 2013 as an infantryman and did two tours overseas. I had the honor of serving in Iraq from 2007 to 2008 and Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011. I took many leadership lessons from those tours and developed a strong ability to maintain a level head in critical situations. These lessons have served me well since.

I love learning about military history and am fascinated with how decisions were made and under what circumstances. I think of those lessons and try to take them into account as I make decisions in my career – primarily how decisions impact people and how to minimize negative impacts. The other lessons are focused on taking ownership of decisions and other leadership methodologies to make a strong and cohesive team.

What led you to choose Methodist?

I knew I wanted to serve others and have always held hospitals in high regard. Whether it was the quality of people or their professionalism, I’ve always believed hospitals are where the best and brightest are. During my interview process, it was evident that the culture of the people was genuine and supportive. That’s the type of environment I appreciate and want to be a part of. 

Coming from the long-term health care facility I worked at, I thought I was familiar with everything I needed to know about hospital maintenance and plant operations. I was wrong. This has been an awesome learning experience, and the day-to-day challenges have pushed me to think outside the box, as well as even further appreciate the men and women working at hospitals. It truly takes a village, and it’s a real privilege to be a part of this team.

Why have you stayed at Methodist?

I truly love and appreciate Methodist and the opportunities to serve people that my job has afforded me. I have a strong passion for taking care of people and serving others, and my role gives me that ability. The care and compassion I see on a daily basis is truly humbling, and the culture of our organization is second to none. 

Do you have any favorite memories from your time at Methodist?

One of the most memorable days I’ve had was the day I received a Hidden Halo Award. When I think of that award, I don’t typically think of it as something that can be awarded outside of groups that are more directly taking care of patients. I wasn’t expecting anything and didn’t think that what I had done was anything special. It was a good feeling to know that regardless of what role you’re in, you can make a difference, and people do see and acknowledge your good efforts.

Have you had a mentor or colleague at Methodist who made a difference for you?

My supervisor, Kenny Walters, has been an excellent mentor. He has broadened my knowledge on so many facets of hospital facilities, and he’s shown me a lot of patience and support as I’ve navigated the learning process relating to operations. 

Caleb Morse, Jennie Edmundson’s facilities manager, has been a huge part of my journey here. His knowledge and experience have been critical for me making decisions. I’m truly blessed to be able to work with him.

The Jennie Edmundson executive leaders have been extremely supportive. They have trusted me to make decisions and provided autonomy for me to succeed or fail, but have shown grace and allowed me to make those mistakes with an opportunity to learn from them.

What should people know about Methodist?

It’s a great organization that affords growth opportunities to the people and a safe and supportive environment to all. I believe The Meaning of Care and the core values are lived out and expressed to everyone who comes to a Methodist facility, and it’s an honor to be a part of it.