Working as an administrative professional at Health Sciences Centre is something that Michael Pajemolin finds passion and meaning in.

“Even though I’m not on the bedside and taking care of patients, I make sure those who are care givers are taken care of. That makes me excited and makes me feel like I’m on the bigger picture. As long as their needs are taken care of, they can focus on doing their job and taking care of patients,” said Pajemolin.

Working in admin roles since 2008, Pajemolin prides himself on taking care of his colleagues so they can be fully available to help HSC patients.

“If they have worries or concerns about HR, about benefits or something that came up that they need to make schedule adjustments, I help. These small things are big things for nurses and health care aids and it takes away their focus from bedside. Then they can focus their full time on taking care of their patient, then I’m on it,” he said.

Pajemolin has been given a nickname for how good he is at filling schedule vacancies – Magic Mike.

“In the hospital, we have a low number of vacancies because we can fill the spots to suit the staff,” he said.

“I learned through the years how to specifically ask people, you get to know the staff and what works for them and what won’t work. When you present them a specific scenario or deal so it’s hard to say no to it. I know how to work around their schedule.”

Going to work is something Pajemolin wants his colleagues to enjoy. He says he’s proud of the work culture of his team and has worked hard to create an environment where people are excited to come to the hospital for a shift.

 “I tried to create an environment where people are excited to go to work and provide care. I create potlucks, I created and started games where there will be awards. We created team activities for bonding. Even though they’re at work, they feel like they’re also going to their passion. It’s not something that they don’t feel supported. That’s how I look at my job,” he said.

This week, we recognize Administrative Professionals for the important contributions they make to the health system every day, whether in direct care, support or corporate environments.