Award winners leading VA Innovation forward

The VHA Innovators Network (iNET) is a group of 36 VA medical centers across the country who invest in and concentrate on employee driven, Veteran-focused innovation. iNET supports both the design and development of employee generated Veteran solutions and the education of thousands of employees.

This education includes teaching innovative competencies, such as Human Centered Design, lean start-up, storytelling, building an innovation strategy and more.

In 2019, iNET began recognizing revolutionary VA employee innovators and leaders. The “Tanked” Award celebrates the idea of agile innovation, ability to pivot a solution, or the incredible dedication to solving a problem no matter what obstacles arise.

Investee of the Year is a VA employee who has gone above and beyond on their journey to innovator. Innovation Specialist of the Year represents the accomplishments of an incredible innovation community leader.

Here are this year’s award winners:

Tanked Awardee – Stacie Garcia, Greater Los Angeles VA

The Tanked Award does not signify a failure but instead the ability to pivot and the flexibility of an investee. Garcia went through the process of innovation, which sometimes means the solution isn’t what you thought it would be.

Garcia (pictured above) found the right solution for Veterans. She embodies the fact that sometimes it isn’t about the solution or result you want but putting in the work to find the solution that your audience needs. Her ability to do this shows her strength of character.

Investee of the Year – Kevin Johnson, Cincinnati VA

Johnson has persevered through more barriers than any one investee should have to encounter. He has continued to grow, learn and follow through despite a continuous upward battle. He is receptive to constructive feedback and makes the necessary changes to iterate his solution, the Kyphotic Wedge.

Johnson appreciates the process of innovation and the work it takes to make something right. He is also extremely passionate and dedicated to this work. He regularly meets with key stakeholders in off duty hours before or after his normal tour of duty and does so with no reservations. He has truly demonstrated what passion for innovation looks like.

Johnson’s device was one of 13 to be featured at the first-ever VA Intrapreneurial Product Marketplace Day at the 2022 Innovation Experience.

Innovation Specialist of the Year – Kim Bielicki, Orlando VA

Bielicki is the heart of Orlando VA. She is not only a leader of her local innovation community but a trusted leader within the iNET community. Her creative and positive approach has not only helped Orlando’s program but supports and allows innovation throughout Florida to thrive.

She is a tremendous asset for Greenhouse Initiative projects, bringing people together throughout her region. Her willingness to lead and build bridges is enormously valuable. No one has more energy or is more passionate about what they do.

Want to support VHA IE’s innovation revolution? Visit our website to learn about opportunities to become involved in innovation at VA.