Honoring a Legacy: The Ed Virbitsky Training & Innovation Centre – A Commitment to Excellence in Environmental Services
The Crothall Environmental Services (EVS) training center at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has been renamed the Ed Virbitsky Training & Innovation Center, a fitting tribute to a man who profoundly impacted the organization and the lives of countless EVS associates. this renaming isn’t just about a new sign; it’s a recognition of Ed Virbitsky’s dedication to building a best-in-class training program and fostering a culture of excellence.
A Transformative Leader in environmental Services
ed Virbitsky, a 30-year veteran of the EVS industry, joined Crothall in April 2020 with a clear mission: to elevate the standard of training for new EVS employees. He quickly exceeded expectations, establishing a training center that became a model for other Crothall EVS units nationwide. Leaders actively sought out the AHN site to learn how to replicate it’s success within their own facilities.
But Ed’s impact went far beyond curriculum advancement. He understood that truly effective training requires a personal touch, a deep understanding of the individuals he was teaching, and a commitment to equipping them for long-term success.
The Impact: Reduced Turnover & Improved Performance
The results speak for themselves. Under Ed’s leadership,the training center annually prepared between 250-300 associates for roles across the nine hospitals within the Allegheny Health Network. More importantly, EVS associate turnover decreased by over 10% in just three years – a significant achievement in a demanding field. This demonstrates the power of investing in your team and providing them with the tools they need to thrive.
beyond the Basics: A Philosophy of Empowerment
What set Ed apart wasn’t just what he taught, but how he taught it.Matt Waggle, a colleague, shared a compelling example:
“He trained people on how to vacuum and how to maintain a vacuum cleaner.Most trainers would simply present the manual. but not Ed.”
rather, Ed would dedicate significant time to a hands-on lesson. He’d disassemble and rebuild a vacuum cleaner with the group, then have each new associate do the same.
“I questioned the time investment,” Waggle recalls, “but Ed explained that teaching proper maintenance would prevent associates from relying on maintenance staff and keep them focused on their core responsibilities. He was thinking several steps ahead, and he was right.”
This illustrates Ed’s proactive approach and his commitment to empowering associates with the knowledge and skills to be self-sufficient.
Bridging Communication Gaps with Empathy and Innovation
The Allegheny Health Network serves a diverse community, and Ed consistently demonstrated an ability to connect with individuals from all backgrounds. Many new hires didn’t speak English as their first language, but Ed never let that be a barrier.He employed innovative techniques to overcome communication challenges, utilizing visual aids, hands-on demonstrations, and patient repetition. He’d physically guide associates through tasks,using gestures and practical application to ensure understanding. This dedication to inclusivity fostered a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
A Lasting Legacy
Ed Virbitsky’s passing is a loss felt deeply by all who knew him. He was remembered as a kind,caring,and humorous individual who genuinely invested in the success of others. he leaves behind his wife, Bridget, and children Ella, Zack, and Ava.
The Ed Virbitsky Training & Innovation Center stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence, his innovative spirit, and his profound impact on the EVS profession. it’s a place where his legacy will continue to inspire and empower future generations of environmental services professionals.
Key Takeaways for EVS leaders:
Invest in comprehensive training: Don’t just cover the basics. Focus on practical skills and problem-solving.
Prioritize hands-on learning: Allow associates to practice and master skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Embrace inclusivity: Develop training methods that cater to diverse learning styles and language backgrounds.
Empower your team: Equip associates with the knowledge and skills to be self-sufficient and proactive.* Lead with empathy:
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