Meet Shawna Carlson, Director of Rehab Services, CareLinc Medical Equipment: 2026 HME Woman of the Year Finalist

Published in Member Communities on June 03, 2026

Shawna Carlson, Director of Rehab Services at CareLinc Medical Equipment, is a transformative leader in the home medical equipment (HME) and accessibility industry. Known for her servant leadership, community impact, and unwavering commitment to others, Shawna has made a lasting impact on both her organization and community—earning her recognition as a 2026 HME Woman of the Year finalist.

Building High-Performing Teams in HME and Accessibility

Strong leadership and operational excellence are always critical in the HME space. Shawna has successfully built CareLinc’s mobility and home accessibility division into a high-performing team of 27 employees. Through thoughtful hiring and a culture of trust and mentorship, she has created an environment where employees feel empowered to make decisions that improve both patient outcomes and the organization.

Her approach to leadership has become a model others seek to replicate—demonstrating how investing in people leads to a highly impactful team culture.

Advancing Accessibility and Community Impact

Beyond her organizational success, Shawna is a leading advocate for accessibility and barrier-free living. She has served as a trusted advisor to the City of Zeeland, contributing to parks and accessibility initiatives that expand independence and access for individuals with disabilities.

Her work reflects a growing priority in the healthcare industry: creating inclusive environments that support long-term quality of life for patients relying on durable medical equipment (DME) and home accessibility solutions.

Leading with Service, Compassion, and Purpose

“Shawna Carlson embodies what it means to lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and create lasting impact both professionally and within her community,” said Kirby Shotwell, Marketing Manager, CareLinc Medical Equipment & Supply. “With nearly 20 years at CareLinc Medical Equipment, she has built a career defined by consistency, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to others.”

Shawna’s leadership is rooted in servant leadership. She is known for her responsiveness, problem-solving mindset, and ability to turn challenges into meaningful solutions. Whether mentoring her colleagues, volunteering, or navigating complex patient needs, Shawna consistently leads with empathy and intention.

Her impact extends into the community through her involvement with healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and the Zeeland Hospital Foundation, reinforcing her commitment to service beyond the workplace.

“Shawna's life and leadership are a reflection of what this award represents,” continued Kirby. “She is an advocate, a mentor, a community leader, and a source of strength and encouragement to those who are fortunate enough to work alongside her. Her influence is measurable in outcomes, but more importantly, it is felt in the lives she touches every day.”