Press Release

Burgess Workshop Leader Named to Head Employee Position

Denise Truckenmiller -- a trainer, workshop speaker and consultant who worked with employees for the past year at Burgess Health Center -- has joined the staff as a full-time director.

Denise, better known as “Truck,” began her duties Aug. 29 as director of human capital, a job formerly called human resources. She fills the position formerly held by Jean Pekarek who was recently named director of patient experiences.

In a series of workshops, Truck worked with Burgess on employee development, addressing communication, coping with change and working together to meet strategic goals. 

“I am excited to have the opportunity to follow through with the ideas and changes we have already started.,” said Truck. “I look forward to working more closely with the incredible people at Burgess.”

Truck had worked with Burgess as a consultant and trainer with Cy Wakeman, Inc., which she joined in 2004. Her other work experience includes executive director of the Sibley Iowa Chamber of Commerce, and counseling and education specialist work with youth-oriented organizations, at-risk youth and persons with developmental and physical disabilities.

A certified mediator, Truck earned her bachelor’s degree in organizational management from the University of Sioux Falls and an MBA with emphasis in human resources from Colorado Technical University.

“We learned a lot from Truck in the past 12 months through her workshops which helped advance work and communication skills among our employees,” said Fran Tramp, Burgess president. “As a director working with more than 200 employees in our workforce, she will play an important leadership role Burgess.”