Ria Menor, surgical technician at Womack Army Medical Center, loads a laparoscopic needle holder during a robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery. (Photo by Keisha Frith)
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Lt. Col. Kimberly Dilger, deputy commandant for quality and safety and chief of perioperative nursing at Womack Army Medical Center, and Sergeant First Class Justyna Robinson, noncommissioned officer and operating room chief, pause for a quick photo during a brief discussion. (Photo by Keisha Frith)
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FORT LIBERTY, N.C. — Joining the military at age 17 was a dream come true for one soldier. The challenges of starting a family ended that dream – or so she thought – but it didn’t kill her desire to serve.
Today, Lt. Col. Kimberly Dilger is the deputy commander for quality and safety and director of perioperative care at Womack Army Medical Center. Dilger’s career began as a surgical specialist at 68 Delta, but the difficult decision to leave the military led her into the civilian world.
“The transition from the military to civilian life as an operating room technician was smooth because the job is exactly the same,” said Dilger.
An easy transition, but not without challenges, as Dilger had to juggle work and caring for her young child, who was frequently sick. Despite these challenges, she attended nursing school, taking advantage of the benefits she received while on active duty and other loans.
“That was the impetus for my education,” Dilger said. “After I graduated, I got a job as a nurse at the Lebanon VA Medical Center.”
At the VA, she worked on the medical-surgical ward, but soon found her way back to the operating room. This job didn’t last long either, as she decided to join the Pennsylvania National Guard (PAARNG).
“Caring for veterans motivated me to want to serve again,” Dilger said.
After her commission by PAARNG, she secured a full-time position as a military technician, company nurse, and sexual assault response coordinator.
“I’ve been working in the operating room since I was 17 and thought I really needed to get out and explore other opportunities,” Dilger said.
Another smooth transition, even though several years had passed.
“It felt like I had put the uniform on just yesterday,” Dilger said.
She loved her current role but missed the “TEAM,” her surgical team. This led her to explore various options, but only one seemed right: returning to active duty. Dilger returned to active duty and after commissioning served in various leadership positions at various military bases before being transferred to Womack. She credits her military experience for teaching her valuable skills such as teamwork, leadership and adaptability. However, it was the camaraderie and sense of purpose that drew her back to the military.
“The operating room was like an orchestra,” remembers Dilger. Everyone worked together to achieve the common goal: caring for the patient. I missed that feeling of togetherness.”
As a leader, Dilger is committed to helping others reach their full potential.
“I want to inspire and motivate my team to get the best out of themselves,” said Dilger.
Thanks to his extensive experience in military and civilian environments, Dilger is well equipped to coach and mentor others.
“A big part of me wishes I had never left. But now I have a variety of experiences that give me solid skills to coach and mentor staff, colleagues and soldiers.”
Dilger’s son has followed in her footsteps and is currently serving in the U.S. Army.
“I am so proud of him,” said Dilger.
As Dilger reflects on her journey, she encourages others to think about military service and, once they have left the military, to complete it.
“Anything is possible, the benefits and programs available are unparalleled. Take advantage of them, it will be worth it; you only live once! So why not ‘Be All You Can Be!’ Motivate yourself, pursue your dreams and live your life to the fullest.”
“Army Medicine offers our volunteers countless opportunities to serve in positions that provide vital support to Soldiers directly and indirectly. Dilger’s story shows what one can accomplish both personally and professionally when one makes a selfless commitment,” said Col. Matthew Marsh, chief nursing officer at Womack.
From the operating room to leadership positions, Dilger has proven that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
To explore military visit opportunities and other career options, visit https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/science-medicine/intensive-care/68d-operating-room-specialist and https://womack.tricare.mil/About-Us/Careers
