Rachelle Borja, the Director of Support Services at Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC), has been honored with the 2025 Region 10 Emerging Regional Leader Award by the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE). This accolade recognizes outstanding individuals in each of ASHE’s ten regions for their leadership, dedication to their community, and commitment to the health care profession.
The award ceremony took place at the ASHE Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference held in Columbus, Ohio, from July 27 to 30. GRMC emphasized that Borja’s selection not only highlights her personal achievements but also reinforces the institution’s ongoing dedication to excellence in health care engineering and facilities management.
As part of her recognition, Borja will participate in the ASHE Leadership Institute on November 7 and 8 in Phoenix, Arizona. This event brings together leaders from across the nation to foster advancements in health care facilities management. GRMC noted that this honor aligns with ASHE’s mission of nurturing the next generation of leaders in the field.
Borja plays a crucial role in ensuring that GRMC’s infrastructure supports patient safety, comfort, and care efficiency. “Rachelle’s dedication, professionalism and leadership have consistently elevated GRMC’s facilities operations to the highest standard,” stated Dr. Alexander “Beau” Wielaard, CEO of GRMC. He further emphasized that this recognition reflects her unwavering commitment not only to the hospital but also to health care excellence in the region.
The nomination process for Borja was spearheaded by GRMC’s local chapter, the Hawaii Society of Healthcare Engineering, under the leadership of President Jessica Onaga. It was supported by letters of recommendation from key figures, including David Jimenez of Johnson Controls Inc., Dr. Wielaard, and Bernie Lobaton, GRMC’s Chief Support Services Officer.
“Rachelle’s recognition by ASHE is a proud moment not just for GRMC, but for our entire Support Services team,” Lobaton remarked. “She has continuously demonstrated exceptional leadership, foresight, and dedication in managing the complex operations that keep our hospital running safely and efficiently.”
Borja’s journey with GRMC began as a contract specialist in the materials management department. She has since progressed through various leadership positions, including warehouse manager and materials management assistant manager. With over 16 years of experience in supply chain and procurement across sectors such as telecommunications, federal contracting, and health care, she transitioned into emergency management in 2021. This role sparked her passion for safety, preparedness, and resilience.
In 2024, Borja was appointed as the Director of Support Services, where she oversees a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including environment of care compliance, emergency management, life safety, safety and security, and logistics/transportation operations.
This recognition marks a significant milestone not only for Borja but also for GRMC as it continues to strive for excellence in health care delivery.
