Staff Spotlight
Career pathways in education and respiratory therapy
Brianna Laurie holds a one-of-a-kind role—the first Regional Respiratory Therapy Educator for inter-professionals in rural and community in B.C. She also works casually as a bedside Respiratory Therapist.
In her role, Brianna provides education on respiratory care to improve patient outcomes. She works closely with leadership and staff on program planning, allowing respiratory therapists to focus on critical clinical tasks. For her, the challenge is rewarding, especially with the support of a collaborative team.
“I find great fulfillment in the ever-changing nature of the work,” she says.
From clinical placement to regional educator
After completing her clinical placement in Vancouver General Hospital in 2013, Brianna began working full-time as a Respiratory Therapist following her graduation in 2014. Over the past decade, she has continued to expand her expertise, working across VCH sites.
She also took on new opportunities, including servicing as Strategic Lead with the Indigenous Cultural Safety Team in 2022 and later as a Clinical Resource Therapist. “I feel like all my past experiences have come together, allowing me to combine my passions for respiratory therapy and education,” she reflects.
Commitment to continuous learning
“At VCH, you are not only valued for the care you provide, but you are also supported in ongoing education,” Brianna shares. “The ability to adapt, grow and learn as part of a team is vital, and VCH truly understands that.”
As health care evolves, so do the opportunities for growth and learning. “This continuous evolution is one of the most compelling aspects of the field, driving both personal and professional development,” she says.
With a wide range of development opportunities, VCH supports career pathways, alongside comprehensive courses in equity, diversity and inclusion, Indigenous cultural safety, and anti-racism, all to build a more inclusive and culturally responsive health-care system.
A culture rooted in collaboration
Teamwork is what keeps Brianna inspired. “Colleagues are always there to lend a hand, whether by helping manage patient workload or offering a listening ear during debriefs,” she explains. “You are never truly alone in this environment—teamwork is the foundation of our practice.”
Making a meaningful impact
Brianna always knew she wanted to work within a hospital setting, driven by her desire to care for people. She finds fulfillment when she can support staff, patients and their families. Whether it’s from listening to concerns or providing education, she says “each of these moments, big or small, reinforces the importance of our work and the meaningful difference we can make.”
Join our team
Explore our various Respiratory Therapist opportunities within VCH.
