Meet the Trainer

Q: What should applicants know about EVS at Children’s Mercy?

A: “Your role is very important. It impacts patient safety, employee safety—even your own safety. It’s crucial to the patient care team.”

Q: Why does EVS matter so much in a children’s hospital?

A: “Our patients are children. They don’t have immune systems strong enough to fight off infections. What we do helps prevent harm. Our work is really important.”

Q: What can someone expect during their first week of training?

A: During the first week, you’ll learn everything you need to get started. The week includes hospital orientation, classroom learning, hands-on practice, and time getting to know your team.

“They’ll learn the skills they need and then practice those skills on the floor.”

Q: What do you want new hires to know about you?

A: “I’m very passionate about their learning and their experience—from the first day they meet me through training.”

“My job is to make them feel welcome so they can relax and take in everything they’re learning.”

Q: What does success look like during training?

A: “Ask questions. Be open. Be patient with yourself.”

Success means engaging, learning, and taking responsibility for your growth.

Q: What qualities make someone a strong fit for EVS?

A: Qualities we look for are

• Takes pride in their work
• Reliable and dependable
• Willing to work hard and learn
• Cares about making a difference

“Our job is physical and important. We need people who take pride in what they do and want to be part of something meaningful.”

Q: What’s something people often misunderstand about EVS?

A: “Some people think it’s ‘just housekeeping’ and that it doesn’t matter—but it really does.”

EVS plays a direct role in keeping patients safe and helping them get the care they need.

Q: What advice would you give someone thinking about this career?

A: “Be ready—this is a career. If you’re serious and you apply yourself, you can build a great career in environmental services.”