A great lineup of discussions around Healthcare in Kansas.

Speakers

  • Building the Future of Rural Healthcare Through Strategic Master Planning

    TJ Steinkirchner
    Cornerstone Construction Consulting, LLC

    TJ is a dynamic executive with an extensive career spanning architecture, construction, real estate development, and asset management. A graduate of Kansas State University's College of Architecture, Planning and Design, he has built an impressive track record of leading teams and delivering outstanding results for clients and companies. Now serving as President and CEO, TJ oversees over 5 million square feet and $300 million in assets. His responsibilities range from capital planning and new construction development to property operations and spearheading the company’s business development initiatives.

    With a career bridging roles such as architect, general contractor, construction manager, owner’s representative, and developer, TJ brings a comprehensive perspective to the table. His notable experience includes working with USAA Bank, McDonald’s, and Saint Luke’s Health System. His project expertise spans industries like finance, healthcare, retail, government, and hospitality, showcasing his versatility and sharp industry insight. His ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments ensures innovative and effective solutions across a broad range of sectors.

    Outside of work, TJ is a devoted family man who enjoys spending time with his four children. He actively participates in his sons' football and wrestling activities and cherishes outdoor adventures such as camping, canoeing, and fishing with his family.

  • Bridging Distances, Transforming Outcomes: Telemedicine at Children’s Mercy KC

    Chad Stotler
    Telemedicine Manager
    Children’s Mercy Kansas City


    Chad Stotler is an experienced clinician, healthcare leader, and telemedicine specialist with a career spanning more than two decades across emergency medical services, air medical transport, clinical research, and hospital operations. As Telemedicine Manager at Children’s Mercy Hospital, he drives innovation through the implementation of virtual care platforms, development of the hospital’s first Mobile Telemedicine Unit, and leadership of key initiatives including NICU camera systems and a Virtual Nurse program. Chad’s background includes serving as an administrative fellow, flight paramedic, educator, and most recently Telemedicine Manager at Children’s Mercy Hospital, bringing a rare combination of clinical expertise, operational insight, and technological fluency. He holds a Master of Health Administration from Texas A&M University and a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Medical Services from the University of South Alabama, complemented by numerous leadership roles, academic honors, and a published article on telemedicine. Working to build effective teams, advance digital health strategy, and improve patient-centered care delivery, Chad brings a mission-driven approach to enhancing healthcare access and outcomes.

Community Blueprints:
Co-Creating the Next Generation Rural Hospital

  • Dave Garnas

    Dave Garnas serves as Vice President of System Operations at Salina Regional Health Center. He previously served as Administrator of North Central Kansas Medical Center and brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience to the organization.

     

    In his current role, Garnas provides oversight of system-wide operations and focuses on strengthening performance, improving efficiency and supporting the delivery of high-quality care across multiple facilities, departments and service lines within the health system.

  • David McCorkle

    David McCorkle has served as Chief Executive Officer of Citizens Health since April 1, 2022. With more than 15 years of healthcare experience, he brings a strong background in both clinical operations and executive leadership. Guided by his faith and a deep commitment to serving others, David approaches leadership with a focus on people, values, and community impact.

    Before his appointment as CEO, David served as Ancillary Services Administrator at Citizens Health for over five years, following earlier leadership roles in the radiology department at Community Hospital in McCook, Nebraska. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is currently pursuing his Master of Business Administration at Western Governors University, reflecting his dedication to lifelong learning and organizational advancement.

    Under David’s leadership, Citizens Health has advanced major initiatives to enhance care and strengthen community trust. These include the system-wide implementation of the Epic Electronic Medical Record in 2024 and the development of a new medical facility in Colby, Kansas, which opened in January 2026. His vision emphasizes innovation, quality, and building a health system that reflects the values of the community it serves.

    At the heart of David’s leadership is a devotion to faith, family, and community. He and his wife, Kayla, are the proud parents of five children: Bailey, Brennan, Breckyn, Blakely, and their late son, Brogan. His personal experiences and strong faith ground him in compassion, integrity, and service — qualities that guide his work in ensuring Citizens Health remains a place where both patients and staff are cared for with excellence and respect.

  • Jim Kirkbride

    Jim Kirkbride is the CEO of Ellsworth County Medical Center in Ellsworth, KS.  He recently lead the completion of a new Physical Therapy department construction project focused on modernizing facilities and improving patient care.  Jim will share insights from the planning, execution, and operational transition of the project, offering practical lessons for healthcare leaders managing complex facility development.