2025 40 Under 40: Chelsea Heilman

Though she took an unconventional path to leadership, Chelsea Heilman, 37, now embraces the work and mentors the next generation.

As Mercy Springfield Communities’ vice president of patient services, Heilman first intended to focus on her physical therapy clinical practice.

“However, colleagues saw potential in me to create a broader impact. Answering that call was not an easy decision, but it has led to nine years of success and genuine happiness,” Heilman says.

Recognizing the role that mentors played in her own success, she focuses on the career development of emerging leaders and those seeking guidance on possible transitions similar to hers. And she continually looks for challenges to encourage her own growth.

“I’m committed to the betterment of myself and those around me,” she says.

Best piece of advice you’ve received? I get to work with brilliant physicians each day. One physician shared with me that when looking to hire someone new, always make sure you are hiring someone whose skill is greater than the mean of the team they are joining. It’s not just about the individual, it’s about how they will inevitably make the team better.

Most treasured possession? My grandma’s typewriter from the 1940s. As a kid, I have vivid memories of sitting at her desk and typing on it for hours – certainly wasting paper and writing nonsense!

Favorite podcast? Chasing Scratch: A Golf Podcast. It follows two college best friends on their quest to become scratch golfers. It’s a fantastic reminder that sometimes what you want to achieve doesn’t always happen quickly and that golf can be really hard!

Favorite local food order? The BLT or the fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy with corn at Farmers Gastropub.