Employee Spotlight: Bobby Quinonez, BSN, RN, CNOR

Meet Bobby Quinonez, BSN, RN, CNOR, acute nursing nurse manager in operating room, Hendrick Medical Center (HMC)

Bobby Quinonez's career trajectory from entry-level transporter to nurse manager was fueled in part by his family's traditions of hard work and helping others. In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we share his story.

After joining HMC in 2009 as a transporter, Bobby saw intriguing career opportunities in the behind-the-scenes world of surgery. Inspired, the Abilene native pursued training for increasingly more sophisticated roles in assisting physicians, and today is a leader on the HMC surgery team.

He served in several roles throughout surgery, including Sterile Processing Department technician, operating room attendant and endoscopy technician, before becoming a nurse and eventually nurse manager in Surgical Services. His path through each of those positions has given him a well-rounded understanding of how every role contributes to patient care.

In the following Q&A, Bobby highlights the appeal of being a nurse in Surgical Services.

Q. How did you become interested in a nursing career?

My interest was truly piqued during my time as an attendant in the operating room. I decided to transfer to an endoscopy position, where I could gain more hands-on experience assisting in procedures while I worked toward a nursing degree. I earn my nursing degrees at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's Abilene campus.

Q. What do you like about being a nurse?

I feel like I have always had a calling to serve others. Becoming a nurse gave me the opportunity to truly fulfill that.

Q. What drew you to surgery?

Surgery is cool. We get to assist with life-changing or life-saving procedures and work alongside some of the most talented and dedicated surgeons. I enjoy the people and the work we do. Every day we can make a meaningful difference in someone's life.

Q. What is a typical day for you?

I typically start with coffee and a team huddle, then do what every manager does: put out fires, answer the hard questions, be supportive, etc. No two days are the same, but that's what makes the job interesting.

Q. What is your advice for anyone considering a nursing career?

Don't wait, and don't feel like you must figure out the perfect specialty before you begin. The great thing about nursing is that there are so many different paths you can take and specialties you can learn.

Q. What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

For me, it represents the importance of family, hard work, respect and taking care of the people around you. I'm proud to say these qualities were an important part of how I was raised, and those values pour over into my nursing career.