The Power of Peers

Kerry Sirkka, Sr. Vice President & General Manager, AMN Healthcare

“It benefits me personally and professionally,” says Kerry Sirkka about her involvement in the American Staffing Association. Kerry is senior vice president and general manager of local and international staffing solutions at AMN Healthcare in San Diego.

Lasting connections

“Personally, I’ve made a lot of connections at ASA. At my level, there isn’t always someone internally to ask questions to, so it’s great to have other people I can call. Some of these professional relationships have also blossomed into friendships.”

Kerry met some especially helpful colleagues through ASA’s Women in Leadership Interest group and Health Care Section Council. “I was looking to advance my career, and one woman turned out to be a mentor and sounding board. I have also gained valuable relationships within the healthcare staffing industry including all sizes and verticals in healthcare staffing.”

“Professionally, ASA has helped me be a better leader. When I participate in ASA activities, I learn about staffing holistically, including commercial, legal, and IT aspects. I gain valuable perspective outside of my healthcare sector.”

Staffing World

To gain a competitive advantage, Kerry attends Staffing World, especially to learn about technology. “I lead a brand that launched a digital staffing app. What I learned at Staffing World through vendors and panel discussions helped me understand what features to look for. There were a lot of great insights on digital staffing.”

Value in virtual

Kerry is embracing the move to virtual events amid the Covid-19 pandemic. “I recently attended the Women in Leadership virtual conference. It was fantastic. I made new connections from across the country. In some ways, virtual is better because so many more people can attend. You don’t have to get on a plane and be away from your family.”

Why lean in?

If you’re wondering whether ASA membership and events are worth your time and money, Kerry says they are. “ASA has absolutely helped me in my career. You will be surprised at how much insight you’ll gain, how many connections you’ll make, and how much more you’ll grow in staffing.”