20 Under 40 | Jaron Caffrey
Written and compiled by LAUREN JURGENSEN | Photos by JOHN BURN
Director of Workforce & Health Care Policy | Kansas Hospital Association
At just 25, Jaron is already leading efforts to grow Kansas’ health care workforce, improve hospitals and ensure access to quality care. His work has helped secure millions in investment, launch health care apprenticeships at more than 30 hospitals and create better opportunities for those entering the health care profession.
Jaron serves as board chair for Kansas HOSA, supports future leaders through the Aleshire Center for Leadership and Community Engagement, and gives back through his church and civic involvement. He is also a graduate of Leadership Greater Topeka. As he plans to marry his fiancée Elizabeth and plant deeper roots in Topeka, Jaron remains focused on building a healthier, stronger community for future generations.
What advice would you give to young professionals?
Be a sponge. Soak up every opportunity to learn, connect and grow. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, whether that’s introducing yourself to someone new or asking a leader you admire to grab coffee. The worst thing that can happen is someone says no, and more often than not, they’ll say yes. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my journey have come from simply starting a conversation and building a connection.
What’s your hidden talent?
I love to cook. I’ve never considered myself artistic or particularly creative, but cooking is the one place where I get to be creative and really enjoy it. There’s something satisfying about bringing a meal together, and I find it one of the most relaxing ways to unwind.
What’s the best leadership advice you’ve ever received?
The best leadership advice I’ve ever received is to never burn a bridge. Even in moments of disagreement or difficulty, there’s usually a way to work through things while preserving relationships. Taking the time to have hard conversations and look for common ground not only leads to better outcomes, but often builds stronger trust in the long run.
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