For Todd Sherrill, facilities director at CommonSpirit Health St. Catherine Hospital, there is no such thing as a typical day.
"That's one of the things I enjoy most,” he said. “I've proudly worked at St. Catherine Hospital for 12 years, and during that time I've worn many hats.”
Sherrill manages the team that keeps the building operational — from electrical systems to plumbing to life-safety equipment. The important behind-the-scenes work ensures that the hospital is safe, efficient, and welcoming for its patients, staff, and visitors.
“Many people don't notice the work Facilities does unless something goes wrong,” he said. “When everything is running smoothly, that's a reflection of my team's dedication.”
A Safe Environment
Patients and visitors at St. Catherine Hospital-Dodge City, a 99-bed hospital in southwestern Kansas, rarely sees the difficult and exceptional work that Sherrill and his team does every day.
They maintain critical building systems and do preventative work to keep the hospital’s equipment reliable and compliant with healthcare regulations. They also respond to urgent maintenance issues 24/7.
Their work directly impacts patient care, Sherrill said.
“Patients rely on safe temperatures, clean air, dependable power, and functioning medical equipment,” he said. “If one of those systems fails, it can affect patient safety and the ability of doctors and nurses to provide care. Our job is to make sure the hospital environment is safe, reliable, and ready so the clinical staff can stay focused on their patients."
What he enjoys the most about the job is the people he works with.
“We have a close-knit team where we can joke around and enjoy working together, but when it's time to focus, everyone works hard and supports one another,” he said.
CommonSpirit’s core values of compassion, inclusion, integrity, excellence, and collaboration define how he and the staff at the hospital interact with patients and one another.
"My inspiration for entering healthcare stems from a desire to be part of a team that genuinely improves people's lives every day,” he said. “I chose St. Catherine Hospital because of its positive workplace culture and commitment to creating a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment for patients and staff alike."
A Family Man
When he’s not on the clock, Sherrill said one of his greatest joys is being a dad to his three young children, who remind him each day of what’s most important in life.
The family spends a lot of time outdoors, “making memories together whenever we get the chance,” Sherrill said.
They go fishing and camping, and lately Sherrill said he’s been teaching his kids how to wakeboard and water ski.
He also enjoys hunting with his brother — an activity he said is more than just a hobby.
“It's a way for us to spend quality time together and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.
Sherrill grew up near Dodge City, in Jetmore, Kansas, where his parents are lifelong residents. He said that living close to family is a blessing.
“Being close to family has allowed us to stay connected, and it's something I truly appreciate,” he said. “I value the sense of community we have here in southwest Kansas, and I'm proud to call this area home.”
It’s the community that makes Dodge City “incredibly special,” he said. The town of about 28,000 residents knows how to build and adapt, and the people look out for one another. He said there’s an attitude of warmth, unity, and neighborly support.
“In a healthcare setting, this sense of community is invaluable,” Sherrill said. “It inspires me to deliver care that reflects that same level of dedication.”
