Rachelle Borja, the director of support services at Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC), has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Region 10 Emerging Regional Leader Award by the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE). This award recognizes outstanding individuals from each of ASHE’s ten regions for their leadership capabilities, dedication to their communities, and commitment to the health care sector.
Borja’s achievement not only highlights her individual accomplishments but also reinforces GRMC’s ongoing commitment to excellence in health care engineering and facilities management. The award ceremony took place during the ASHE Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference held in Columbus, Ohio, from July 27 to 30, 2025.
As part of her recognition, Borja has been invited to participate in the ASHE Leadership Institute, scheduled for November 7 and 8, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. This event will gather leaders from across the nation to focus on advancing excellence in health care facilities management. The honor also aligns with ASHE’s mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the field.
Impact on Health Care Facilities
Borja’s work significantly impacts GRMC’s infrastructure, ensuring that it supports patient safety, comfort, and care efficiency. Dr. Alexander “Beau” Wielaard, CEO of GRMC, praised her contributions, stating, “Rachelle’s dedication, professionalism, and leadership have consistently elevated GRMC’s facilities operations to the highest standard. This recognition from ASHE is a testament to her unwavering commitment not only to our hospital but to the greater mission of health care excellence throughout our region.”
Borja’s nomination was initiated by the local chapter of ASHE, the Hawaii Society of Healthcare Engineering, under the leadership of president Jessica Onaga. The nomination was further supported by letters of recommendation from David Jimenez of Johnson Controls Inc., Dr. Wielaard, and Bernie Lobaton, GRMC’s chief support services officer.
Lobaton expressed pride in Borja’s recognition, noting, “This is a proud moment not just for GRMC, but for our entire Support Services team. She has continuously demonstrated exceptional leadership, foresight, and dedication in managing the complex operations that keep our hospital running safely and efficiently.”
Career Path and Responsibilities
Borja’s journey at GRMC began as a contract specialist in the materials management department. Over time, she progressed through various leadership roles, including warehouse manager and materials management assistant manager. With over 16 years of experience in supply chain and procurement across telecommunications, federal contracting, and health care, she transitioned into emergency management in 2021. This role ignited her passion for safety, preparedness, and resiliency.
In 2024, Borja was appointed director of support services, where she now oversees compliance with the environment of care, emergency management, life safety, safety and security, and logistics and transportation operations. Her diverse expertise and leadership continue to enhance the operational efficiency of GRMC, ensuring that the facility meets the highest standards of health care delivery.
Through her recognition by ASHE, Rachelle Borja exemplifies the dedication and skill necessary for effective health care management. Her commitment to excellence is a vital asset to GRMC and the broader health care community, reaffirming the importance of strong leadership in the ongoing pursuit of quality health care.
