A Place to Build Her Future

Celebrating Trish Schroll, Recipient of Disability Network of Southwest Michigan’s Independent Living Award

Trish Shroll is an Environmental Services (EVS) Associate at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. She was hired in 2024 after attending a job fair hosted by Michigan Works. Several years ago, Trish got involved with Disability Network of Southwest Michigan, a nonprofit that helps people with disabilities gain independence, access resources and succeed in work and community life. Through the network, Trish met Mary, an advocate who has become one of her greatest supporters.

Recently, Trish was honored with Disability Network of Southwest Michigan’s Independent Living Award. The award is given each year to people with disabilities who show resilience, independence and a commitment to creating the life they want.

When Mary told her she had won the award, Trish felt honored but also a little surprised. “I was excited to get the award, but I didn’t really understand why it was important,” Trish said. “After talking more with Mary and my manager, Mike, I realized how meaningful it was. Sometimes we question ourselves… life can feel crazy, and you wonder if you’re doing the right thing or doing a good job. Taking the time to think about everything I’ve been through and all the effort I’ve put in — at work, at home, with my daughter — this award is a really good reminder that I AM doing well.”

According to Mary, “The thing that stands out about Trish more than anything is her determination. She truly wants to succeed. Even when things get difficult, she never makes excuses. Failure or not meeting her potential is not an option to her.”

Before joining Bronson, Trish worked several other housekeeping jobs. Many of them were unstable and lacked support.

When I had my interview with Kimberla, the Bronson recruiter at the Michigan Works job fair, I could tell she really liked me,” Trish explained. “She told me there wasn’t a job open at the time, but she thought something might come up soon. A week or two later, I got a call from Mike. He let me do the interview on the phone because I didn’t know if I could get there in time. I was really nervous, but he made me feel comfortable. He offered me a part-time position.”

Mike Myers, Trish’s manager, recalls her early days at Bronson. “During her interview, Trish shared that she had a disability. When I hired her, I made sure she had the training and support she needed. She worked a lot with Kay, our department trainer, and with time she has proven to be incredibly capable in her work and someone I can always count on. Trish is someone who constantly leads by example. She has really blossomed into an outstanding team member.”

While talking about his interview with Trish, Mike highlighted that hiring individuals with disabilities benefits the whole team.

At Bronson, we believe in giving everyone a fair chance to succeed,” he said. “People like Trish bring determination, talent and a fresh perspective to the workplace.” Mary added that “As someone who works in the disability community, I really appreciate the opportunities Bronson provides.

Even with prior housekeeping experience, this role was a big transition for Trish. Not every company takes the time to provide the support needed for employees to thrive. That kind of commitment makes a real difference for people who may need a little extra help.”

One of the aspects of her job that is so important to Trish is the consistency. Unlike some of her previous jobs, Trish has a set schedule. This has allowed her to plan her life better and be there for the important people in her life, like her daughter and family. The other thing that makes her job so meaningful is the people.

My favorite part about working here is the people,” Trish said. “Everyone is so nice. That includes Mike, the EVS team and all of the staff, nurses and doctors on the floor. Unless I need to help in a different area of the hospital, I work on the second floor units.

They have made me feel like part of their team. They invite me to potlucks and department events, which really makes me feel included. And If I have a question or concern, someone will always help me.

One time there was a patient who made me feel kind of uncomfortable. It wasn’t a big deal, but I knew it would make me feel more at ease if someone else was in the room. The patient’s nurse came in the room with me to check on the patient and talk with them while I cleaned. Having someone support me like that is beyond what I received at any other job.”

Trish also shared small moments that make her day feel special. “Sometimes it’s just the little things,” she said. “Like when I finish a room and a nurse smiles and thanks me, or when a patient says, ‘You made my day.

Those moments remind me why I like working in healthcare.” Even on her more challenging days, Trish keeps a positive attitude. “I just focus on what I can do that day and keep moving forward.”

Trish has shown herself to be an invaluable member of the EVS team, but she also has goals to grow within her career. “For a long time, I thought it would be great to work in healthcare.

That is actually why I applied to the job at Bronson,” she explains. “In the early days of COVID, I took a class about nursing. One of the things we saw was how to start an IV.

I thought it was really cool and made me think about a career in phlebotomy – maybe even working with kids. It’s a goal that scares me, but it’s something I think about a lot. In fact, Mike has talked to me about maybe doing some job shadowing so I can learn more about that career path and if it is something I want to work toward even more.”

“Something I am really hoping to get off the ground for our EVS team is a job shadowing program,” Mike explained. “For employees like Trish who are dedicated, disciplined and want to grow, this program will allow them to spend one paid shift per month in another department, like phlebotomy, materials management or sterile processing.

The employee will learn about the department, gain hands-on experience and can decide if the job fits their skills and interests. Our job as leaders is to keep our employees engaged, help them earn more money and build long-term careers here at Bronson.”

When it comes to working at Bronson, Mike emphasizes Bronson’s commitment to employee growth. “Next year, we are launching our Career Ladder program within EVS.

It will allow employees to learn new skills, take on new responsibilities and grow their career here at Bronson. For each step the employee completes, they earn a $1/hour pay raise. The last step allows the employee to apply for a coordinator position.”

Looking ahead, Trish is focused on continued growth both personally and professionally. She’s working toward career advancement opportunities within Bronson’s internal programs, which offer skill-building and wage increases. Outside of work, she’s planning milestones like buying a new car and supporting her daughter who is about to start driver’s training.

Trish’s story shows how determination, humility and support from a community can help someone overcome challenges. Mary said, “Watching Trish grow and succeed has been incredible. She faced obstacles that would stop many people, but she kept moving forward. She is truly an inspiration.”

Bronson is proud to celebrate Trish Shroll, not only for her award, but for the example she sets every day through hard work, a commitment to growth and a positive outlook on life.

About Disability Network of Southwest Michigan

Disability Network of Southwest Michigan is a Center for Independent Living serving Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties. The organization is dedicated to helping individuals with physical, psychiatric, neurological or sensory disabilities thrive at home, at work and in the community. They also work to support local organizations and agencies in understanding and complying with disability rights laws. With at least 51% of their Board of Directors and staff being people with disabilities, Disability Network of Southwest Michigan is able to advocate for equal opportunities, self-determination and services created with input from those they serve. You can learn more about Disability Network of Southwest Michigan on their website or by calling (269) 3345-1516.