Susan Martinez
Interim Director, Quality Built-In and Continuous Improvement
What do you like to do outside of work?
I’m very active outside of work. I’ve been swimming at least 1.25 miles/day nearly every day since 1984; my goal is to take one “lap” around the circumference of the earth (I have 7 years go to). This year I achieved the rank of Nidan (second degree black belt) in the Japanese martial art Aikido, and have trained with some of the top sensei in the art, including as an uchi-deshi (live-in student) for 10 days in Japan. I love spending time with my husband and our dog, and love to travel.
What's an issue you think remains overlooked or under-addressed in terms of women in the professional world?
Unconscious bias remains an important barrier for professional women. This ranges from systemic barriers such as pay inequity or childcare being seen as a barrier for women in the workforce (but not for men), to unconscious gender bias in work settings.
Why did you decide to join Women of UCSF’s team of volunteers?
I have benefitted from generations of women before me, and see that networking, peer support, and professional sponsorship are greatly needed in our organization. I want to help create that culture of change.
What’s your role at UCSF and what is your favorite part about it?
My role at BCH Oakland is leading Continuous Improvement initiatives, including clinical, business, and facilities projects. One of my favorite parts is 3P – radical process or space redesign – which we have much of in Oakland, driven by the Master Plan. I am creative and resourceful, and having worn several hats in the organization I have a deep understanding of hospital operations as they relate to space. I have come to appreciate that poor design is extremely expensive in operational costs over the years.
What advice would you give yourself early on in your career?
Take advantage of unusual opportunities, even if you don’t see an immediate payoff or connection to your current professional or personal pathway. Stay curious and take chances. You will be amazed at how, as Steve Jobs said, you can “connect the dots looking backwards.” I would also add: Don’t be driven by anecdote -- go see for yourself. Actively look for confirmation bias in your own, and others’, thinking.