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UP Health System – Bell Heroes | Ben Kayes
July 25, 2025
What is your role at UPHS?
I'm the IT director for UPHS - Bell
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I wanted to do work that benefited the local community, while also growing in my field. Healthcare is a fantastic way to do that for IT, as it interacts with so many different systems.
What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?
Since I work with every department in the hospital, my day can vary a lot, but I’ll always start it by going through the overnight emails and tickets. We’ll then huddle to discuss active projects and divvy up responsibilities.
How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
It'll be three years this November. I’ve been in my current role for six months.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
Keeping my time open for my staff and other managers, even when I’d prefer to be on the ground fixing an issue myself.
What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
Running the local trails and baking sourdough. My favorite local gem is Velodrome Coffee; they have their roastery in Ishpeming and the coffee is excellent.
What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Bell?
Everyone is very friendly, and the work is engaging. I’ve worked at other places where the culture was just "clock-in, clock-out", and I haven’t experienced that at Bell.