UPHS – Portage Heroes | James Miron

What is your role at UP Health System?

I am the lead security guard at UP Health System - Portage.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

After 20 years in the Coast Guard conducting search and rescue and maritime law enforcement, my entire professional identity has been built around protecting people and responding to crises. When I retired from military service, I knew I wanted to continue serving my local community in a meaningful way. Hospital security immediately appealed to me because it allows me to translate my decades of public safety, de-escalation, and emergency response experience into a healthcare environment where keeping patients, staff, and families safe is the top priority.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

In this field, every single day brings something new, and that variety is exactly why I enjoy it. On a typical shift, my time is split between proactive safety measures and direct crisis response. I spend a lot of time making hospital rounds, assisting staff with patients in the emergency department, and responding immediately to all codes. Some days are definitely more challenging than others, but knowing I am maintaining a calm, secure environment for healing makes it incredibly rewarding.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I have been with the hospital for two years now, and my role has evolved significantly during that time. I actually started as the very first daytime Security Guard when the department expanded to allow for daytime coverage, which allowed me to help build out our daytime safety protocols from scratch. When the department grew further and created the Lead Security Guard position, I applied for it and was promoted. It’s been incredibly rewarding to grow alongside the department and take on that higher level of responsibility.  

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?

The most significant change I’ve experienced was our recent department expansion, where we acquired a new security office and upgraded our infrastructure. I led the charge in setting up the new workspace and procuring new equipment. My goal was to ensure that the layout and the new technology directly enhanced our department's daily operational capabilities. As a result of this transition, our emergency response times have improved, and the team is much better equipped to handle critical hospital codes efficiently.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?

Outside of work, I really enjoy blending technology and creativity through 3D printing. I spend my free time designing 3D models on my computer and then bringing them to life as functional, physical objects that can be used around the house or given as gifts. As for my favorite local gem, that would definitely have to be breakfast at Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant. You can't beat their atmosphere, and it's easily my favorite spot to start my day.

What do you enjoy most about working at UP Health System?

What I enjoy most about UP Health System is the incredible sense of community and teamwork across the entire campus. From the day I started, I've been impressed by how genuinely friendly, welcoming, and collaborative the hospital staff are, which makes for an excellent working environment. On top of that, I am incredibly proud of the security team I get to work with every day. We have built a highly cohesive, supportive unit where everyone looks out for one another and stays focused on our shared mission of keeping patients, staff, and visitors safe. Working alongside people who bring both high professionalism and great morale to the job makes coming to work every shift rewarding.