Joe Kurland

Vaccine advocate, Infection Preventionist and Swim Coach

Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

About

Experienced Infection Control Practitioner and immunization advocate with a demonstrated history of working in acute and ambulatory care fields. Skilled in epidemiology, infection prevention, high-level disinfection and sterilization processes, and construction risk assessments (ICRA). Trained in vaccine science, Joe serves as an evidence-based public health advocate with on-the-ground knowledge in infectious disease outbreaks, pandemics, and novel vaccine responses.

Experience

  • Head Swim Coach at Blaine High School Swimming and Diving
    May 2026 - Present · 3 mos

  • Infection Preventionist at Gillette Children's
    May 2025 - Present · 1 yr 3 mos

  • Infection Prevention Manager at MINNEAPOLIS VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
    Aug 2022 - May 2025 · 2 yrs 10 mos

    Directed daily operations of a multidisciplinary Infection Prevention and Control team within a large federal healthcare system. Led recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of infection prevention staff. Revitalized hand hygiene monitoring programs, improving compliance and staff engagement. Led investigations of device contamination events and unit-level outbreaks, coordinating corrective actions across clinical, engineering, and leadership teams. Advised executive leadership on infection prevention risks and mitigation strategies.

  • Infection Preventionist, Vaccine Specialist at Children's Minnesota
    Apr 2014 - Aug 2022 · 8 yrs 5 mos

    Co-led large-scale COVID-19 vaccine distribution to staff, patients, and community partners, prioritizing equitable access. Served as lead Infection Preventionist for sterilization and high-level disinfection programs. Designated Emergency Preparedness liaison for Infection Prevention and Control, supporting pandemic and surge response planning. .

  • Infection Prevention and Control Consultant at Midwest Children's Resource Center
    Aug 2020 - Feb 2022 · 1 yr 7 mos

    Provided COVID-19 pandemic-related guidance to MCRC facility partners focused on infection and prevention and control measures. Advised site leads on current federal, state, and local best practices to protect staff, industry partners, clients, and families from exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus.