Diego Camargo’s first introduction to AdventHealth was at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs on the day he was born. Years later, after graduating high school in 2017, he followed in the footsteps of his father, a Navy veteran, and enlisted in the Marine Corps, a path that led him to California.
Serving in the military, Camargo was drawn to the strong sense of mission and purpose instilled in him, and the extensive formal training programs available that provided him with opportunities to hone his skills in logistics and leadership. After four years of service, he returned home in July 2021, appreciating his time there as a valuable experience.
“In hindsight, I’m glad I joined the military because it reminded me of what was important, which is protecting and caring for others," he said.
He said the transition to civilian life was challenging, and finding his place felt daunting. However, a chance encounter with a leader at AdventHealth a few months later opened an unexpected door – a career in health care.
Camargo eventually joined AdventHealth, starting his journey in logistics at the simulation department at AdventHealth East Orlando.
“I was nervous on my first day, but everyone was so welcoming,” he said. “Health care is one of the most impactful industries and knowing that made my transition easier."
Camargo quickly embraced the team culture at AdventHealth, which became even more apparent when his father was diagnosed with skin cancer in November 2022. "My coworkers were incredibly supportive," he said. "They told me, 'Tell us what you need, and we've got it.' I was even able to work from my father's hospital room at AdventHealth Orlando. Seeing the impact and care of the nurses firsthand was profound.”
The compassion Camargo’s father experienced during his battle with cancer solidified Camargo’s purpose, especially when he started his new role as a simulation specialist in 2023. In this role, he works alongside a diverse team, including veterans, training nurses and non-clinical team members, on essential skills like CPR, chemotherapy administration and responding to various medical scenarios. He collaborates closely with the nursing professional development team to ensure the highest quality of training.
Camargo sees the impact of his work, which he finds incredibly rewarding.
"Every time our teams finish a session, they always say they look forward to more of these trainings," he said. "Whether the training occurs on a mannequin or in a simulation lab, every session ultimately translates to caring for a real person. Just like I’ve heard from some leaders here at AdventHealth, we 'train like we care.'"
Camargo’s father sadly passed away in April 2024, but the excellent care he received continues to deepen Camargo’s connection to his work, adding another layer of meaning to his purpose in health care.
"My role enables me to build personal connections," he said. "I know what I do is important for patient care, but it becomes another level of empathy when it impacts a family member."
Camargo is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting with the help of AdventHealth’s educational assistance program. He continues to learn and grow, driven by his father’s legacy and the support of his AdventHealth family.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to something higher than myself,” he said. “My dad is a big inspiration, and knowing that what I do daily could impact someone like him is humbling."
