Kellishia Kelley, B.A.Sc., CRCST, CIS
Kellishia Kelley, B.A.Sc., CRCST, CIS, is a dedicated Sterile Processing Supervisor at Baptist Medical Center, Clay County, where she leads initiatives focused on quality assurance, staff development, and the efficient management of surgical instrumentation and supplies. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in sterile processing, she plays a vital role in ensuring that instruments are properly decontaminated, inspected, and sterilized according to the highest safety standards—directly supporting successful surgical outcomes and patient safety.
A true working supervisor, Kellishia believes in leading by example. She works alongside her team, fostering a collaborative, high-performing environment built on accountability, respect, and continuous learning. Her leadership style reflects her commitment to excellence and her dedication to empowering those around her.
Kellishia’s career journey is a testament to resilience and determination. She began in 2000, gaining foundational knowledge through hands-on experience, and steadily progressed from technician to preceptor, lead technician, and now supervisor. During her journey, she earned her CRCST and CIS certifications and took a five-year hiatus to complete her Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice and Law. This experience broadened her perspective and strengthened her leadership approach upon returning to healthcare with renewed focus.
Her leadership philosophy emphasizes education, attention to detail, and mentorship. She is passionate about developing her team and upholding the highest standards in sterile processing to ensure optimal patient care. Committed to lifelong learning, Kellishia is currently pursuing her Certified Healthcare Leadership (CHL) credential to further enhance her leadership capabilities.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Kellishia remains actively engaged in the sterile processing community through her involvement with the First Coast Sterile Processing Association. She also contributes to philanthropic efforts, often working quietly behind the scenes to support causes close to her heart.
Known for her humility, hands-on leadership, and unwavering commitment to patient safety, Kellishia Kelley exemplifies purpose-driven leadership and continues to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
• Basic Life Support
• Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)
• Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS), HSPA
• Harrison College – Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.), Criminal Justice and Law
• Harrison College – Associate of Applied Science, Criminal Justice
• Influential Women 2026
• First Coast Sterile Processing Association
• Church support and donations (conducted anonymously)
• Support for friends' businesses
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying committed to the goals I’ve set for myself—both professionally and personally. Over time, I’ve learned not to let anyone define my limits. If I set my mind to something, I know I can achieve it.
I no longer seek validation from others. I’ve learned the power of saying no without guilt, and that has allowed me to focus on my growth, my peace, and my career fulfillment. I don’t pretend to know everything—I ask questions, I stay curious, and I remain a student, especially as I continue learning and adapting to changes in IFUs and sterilization processes.
Most importantly, I believe I was placed here with purpose. Every day, I’m walking deeper into that purpose. I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone. My accountability is to God, and that perspective has shaped me into who I am today.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A turning point in my journey was when a supervisor encouraged me to pursue my CRCST and CIS certifications. That decision opened doors I hadn’t even imagined and positioned me for growth within my career.
Along the way, I also learned the importance of advocating for myself. Speaking up about my accomplishments isn’t about ego—it’s about recognizing my value and ensuring my work is seen when opportunities arise.
Growth doesn’t just come from hard work—it comes from being prepared, being confident, and being willing to use your voice.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering the field: invest in your education and pursue certifications—they create opportunities and open doors. Never be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Growth comes from learning, not from pretending to have all the answers.
Stay current with evolving IFUs and new technologies, and commit to continuous learning. Set clear goals for yourself and follow through—discipline and consistency matter.
Don’t be afraid to say no when necessary. Protecting your time and energy is part of your success. Gain as much hands-on experience as you can, stay curious, and remain persistent even when things get challenging.
Your growth will come from a combination of knowledge, confidence, and resilience—keep going.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in sterile processing is overcoming the widespread misconceptions about what we do and the value we bring. In addition, the constant evolution of technologies and IFUs requires ongoing education and the ability to adapt quickly.
However, within those challenges lie great opportunities. There is a growing need for strong leadership in this field—leaders who can mentor, educate, and advocate for the profession. There’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about the critical role sterile processing plays in patient safety every single day.
By continuing to learn, lead, and speak up, we not only strengthen our profession—we elevate the standard of care for the patients we ultimately serve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me are education, humility, and kindness.
Education has always held deep meaning in my family. My great-grandmother had no formal education, my grandmother reached the 6th grade, and my parents earned college degrees. That progression reminds me every day of the power of learning, growth, and opportunity—and it’s something I carry with me in everything I do.
I believe strongly in humility. Not everything needs to be announced or recognized. Some of the most meaningful things I do are done quietly—supporting others, giving back to churches and organizations, and uplifting friends in their businesses—simply because it’s the right thing to do.
As a leader, I believe in being hands-on and leading by example. I’m not one to sit behind a desk. I work alongside my team, support them when needed, and show them that no task is beneath me. I value open communication, asking questions, and creating an environment where we can learn and grow together.
Above all, I value my faith. I truly believe I was placed in this position for a purpose, and I strive every day to walk in that purpose with integrity, compassion, and intention.