Maria Turner’s approach to her role in IS blends her technical expertise with a deep understanding of the human side of healthcare. Her ability to step into others’ shoes and provide compassionate solutions is at the heart of her work, making her a valued member of our One Amazing Team.
Seventeen years ago, Maria began her journey at Texas Children’s in an administrative support role. Her curiosity and drive quickly became apparent. “Sitting in meetings supporting others in IT, I found the work stimulating. I knew I wanted to learn more, and I was encouraged to pursue training. From there, I became a junior analyst,” Maria recalled.
Now, as a technical applications advisor and mobility lead, Maria has spearheaded our mobile technology strategy, improving access for clinicians and staff. Her leadership in enhancing the End User Experience (EUX) has directly impacted hospital operations, helping teams better serve our patients.
While Maria’s work often involves critical behind-the-scenes projects, her connection to Texas Children’s mission remains strong. “It’s really important, especially in roles like technology, to stay connected to why we do what we do,” she explained. “I love to walk the halls of the hospital, talk to our clinicians, ask them how they’re doing and how the technology is working for them.”
As a Spanish speaker, Maria also finds joy in helping families she meets in the hospital’s corridors. “For Spanish-speaking families, the hospital can be intimidating. There’s an immediate trust and comfort level because our language connects us.”
Maria’s sensitivity to others’ needs stems from her experiences as a mother of two children, one of whom has special needs. “One thing I have loved about my leadership team is they’ve always been so flexible when I need to step out or take some time away.” She has received critical support during life events like a hospital stay after a car accident during her pregnancy and when caring for her ailing father.
Maria’s journey as a woman in a male-dominated field has come with challenges, but she’s found support from women across the hospital, including IS Senior Project Manager Susan Clark and executive vice president and CIO Myra Davis. She pays it forward by mentoring young women, including the interns who join her team. “It can be intimidating to sit in a room full of highly intelligent men, but women bring different, equally important qualities. They need to hear our voices.”
Reflecting on the bond between women, Maria shared a poem she wrote that captures the profound impact of mentorship: “Where seasoned women are able to share adversities, overcome and impart wisdom. Where young women, uninhibited by life lessons not yet learned, inspired me to dream further and filled me with hope for future generations. Our time, a gentle reminder that the world needs each of our gifts.”
Maria continues to bridge technology and compassion at Texas Children’s, reminding us these worlds are not mutually exclusive, and that connection, curiosity and care are as vital to innovation as the technology itself.