Orthopedic Surgery Residency Bios

PGY 1

Catalina Aloman, MD

Hometown: Born in Laz, Romania, grew up in Denton, TX

Medical school: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? The opportunity to learn everything I can about orthopaedics in the amazing culture this program has cultivated. The faculty and residents both have a strong dedication to the furtherance of education and maintaining a sense of camaraderie. While on rotation here as a 4th year medical student I saw how residents would go out of their way to help one another whenever they could. The care the individuals at this program have for each other and the community they serve made me know that this was the place I wanted to be, and I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the program.

Clinical interests: I have enjoyed the complexity and variety I have seen in orthopaedic trauma cases along with the joy of healing children in pediatric orthopaedic surgery. I aim to broaden my horizons and gain more experience in all the subspecialties as I continue my learning.

Hobbies: Any and all sports, a day out in the sun is the best! In my free time you can usually find me baking, cooking, reading, or being out in the water. My husband and I both enjoy spending time exploring new restaurants or trying out new recipes ourselves.

Thomas Geissler

Hometown: Hudson, WI

Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? After spending a month rotating at Corewell Health in West Michigan during medical school, I knew immediately that this was where I wanted to train. The camaraderie among residents was unmatched—this program truly feels like a family. The faculty are deeply invested in resident success, and the program offers a high clinical volume, strong operative experience, and ample research and mentorship opportunities. It checked every box for me, and I'm excited to get started and contribute to the team.

Clinical interests: I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship in Sports Medicine or Arthroplasty. That said, I'm eager to broaden my exposure to all orthopaedic subspecialties and am keeping an open mind as I continue to learn and grow.

Hobbies: I love being outdoors and staying active—whether that's playing hockey, golf, and volleyball, or training for triathlons. I'm looking forward to exploring everything West Michigan has to offer, from camping and fishing to skiing. When I'm looking to relax, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and grabbing a beer at one of the many local breweries—after all, Grand Rapids is Beer City, USA.

Corbin Merchant, MD

Hometown: Great Falls, MT

Medical school: University of Washington

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited about training in Grand Rapids because of the people. During my rotation as a medical student, the residents and faculty were eager to teach me and help me excel. It was also readily apparent that the program supported the residents and listened to their feedback in order to create the best learning environment possible. I immediately knew that Grand Rapids had the culture and camaraderie I was looking for.

Clinical interests: I'm currently undecided on which fellowship I'd like to pursue. If I had to choose, I would say that trauma, joints, or hand/upper extremity are my top three at the moment.

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy anything outside, particularly skiing, golfing, biking, camping, and floating. When I want to lounge around the house, I enjoy reading or watching YouTube.

Marquisha Myles, MD

Hometown: Detroit, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to train at a program that deeply values community, mentorship, and the holistic growth of its residents. What stood out to me about Corewell Health in West Michigan, and I believe will remain true, is the culture of support among residents and attendings, the hands-on exposure to complex cases, and the program's dedication to developing both technical skill and compassionate care. I look forward to contributing my full self, clinically, intellectually, and personally, over the next five years.

Clinical interests: I continue to be curious about the breadth of subspecialties within orthopaedic surgery. I am especially passionate about advancing health equity and aspire to build a career that integrates clinical excellence with mentorship, advocacy, and innovation.

Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I enjoy painting, listening to music, and exploring mindfulness practices such as meditation. I also love traveling, both domestically and internationally. These hobbies not only bring me joy but help me show up more grounded and present in all aspects of my life.

Torben Urdahl, MD

Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I first heard about the program from a close mentor in medical school who is a graduate of the program at Corewell Health in West Michigan, and her excellent endorsement led me to pursue an away rotation here. My rotation exceeded my expectations in every way. The program fosters a strong, supportive culture among residents, has exceptional teaching faculty across all subspecialties, and has outstanding ancillary support. I feel extremely privileged to have the opportunity to continue my professional development in such an environment, and Grand Rapids is a beautiful area to spend these five years.

Clinical interests: Throughout my sub-internships in orthopedic surgery, both at my home institution and during away rotations, I have found that I like many aspects of each subspecialty. I look forward to discovering which area I'll ultimately pursue over the course of residency.

Hobbies: I love spending time outdoors whenever I can. Some personal favorites are spending time with my wife, hiking, fishing, canoeing, golfing, playing pickleball, and grilling. Lately, I've also enjoyed DIY projects and maintenance on my car and house.

Catalina Aloman, MD

Hometown: Born in Laz, Romania, grew up in Denton, TX

Medical school: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? The opportunity to learn everything I can about orthopaedics in the amazing culture this program has cultivated. The faculty and residents both have a strong dedication to the furtherance of education and maintaining a sense of camaraderie. While on rotation here as a 4th year medical student I saw how residents would go out of their way to help one another whenever they could. The care the individuals at this program have for each other and the community they serve made me know that this was the place I wanted to be, and I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the program.

Clinical interests: I have enjoyed the complexity and variety I have seen in orthopaedic trauma cases along with the joy of healing children in pediatric orthopaedic surgery. I aim to broaden my horizons and gain more experience in all the subspecialties as I continue my learning.

Hobbies: Any and all sports, a day out in the sun is the best! In my free time you can usually find me baking, cooking, reading, or being out in the water. My husband and I both enjoy spending time exploring new restaurants or trying out new recipes ourselves.

Thomas Geissler

Hometown: Hudson, WI

Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? After spending a month rotating at Corewell Health in West Michigan during medical school, I knew immediately that this was where I wanted to train. The camaraderie among residents was unmatched—this program truly feels like a family. The faculty are deeply invested in resident success, and the program offers a high clinical volume, strong operative experience, and ample research and mentorship opportunities. It checked every box for me, and I'm excited to get started and contribute to the team.

Clinical interests: I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship in Sports Medicine or Arthroplasty. That said, I'm eager to broaden my exposure to all orthopaedic subspecialties and am keeping an open mind as I continue to learn and grow.

Hobbies: I love being outdoors and staying active—whether that's playing hockey, golf, and volleyball, or training for triathlons. I'm looking forward to exploring everything West Michigan has to offer, from camping and fishing to skiing. When I'm looking to relax, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and grabbing a beer at one of the many local breweries—after all, Grand Rapids is Beer City, USA.

Corbin Merchant, MD

Hometown: Great Falls, MT

Medical school: University of Washington

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited about training in Grand Rapids because of the people. During my rotation as a medical student, the residents and faculty were eager to teach me and help me excel. It was also readily apparent that the program supported the residents and listened to their feedback in order to create the best learning environment possible. I immediately knew that Grand Rapids had the culture and camaraderie I was looking for.

Clinical interests: I'm currently undecided on which fellowship I'd like to pursue. If I had to choose, I would say that trauma, joints, or hand/upper extremity are my top three at the moment.

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy anything outside, particularly skiing, golfing, biking, camping, and floating. When I want to lounge around the house, I enjoy reading or watching YouTube.

Marquisha Myles, MD

Hometown: Detroit, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to train at a program that deeply values community, mentorship, and the holistic growth of its residents. What stood out to me about Corewell Health in West Michigan, and I believe will remain true, is the culture of support among residents and attendings, the hands-on exposure to complex cases, and the program's dedication to developing both technical skill and compassionate care. I look forward to contributing my full self, clinically, intellectually, and personally, over the next five years.

Clinical interests: I continue to be curious about the breadth of subspecialties within orthopaedic surgery. I am especially passionate about advancing health equity and aspire to build a career that integrates clinical excellence with mentorship, advocacy, and innovation.

Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I enjoy painting, listening to music, and exploring mindfulness practices such as meditation. I also love traveling, both domestically and internationally. These hobbies not only bring me joy but help me show up more grounded and present in all aspects of my life.

Torben Urdahl, MD

Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I first heard about the program from a close mentor in medical school who is a graduate of the program at Corewell Health in West Michigan, and her excellent endorsement led me to pursue an away rotation here. My rotation exceeded my expectations in every way. The program fosters a strong, supportive culture among residents, has exceptional teaching faculty across all subspecialties, and has outstanding ancillary support. I feel extremely privileged to have the opportunity to continue my professional development in such an environment, and Grand Rapids is a beautiful area to spend these five years.

Clinical interests: Throughout my sub-internships in orthopedic surgery, both at my home institution and during away rotations, I have found that I like many aspects of each subspecialty. I look forward to discovering which area I'll ultimately pursue over the course of residency.

Hobbies: I love spending time outdoors whenever I can. Some personal favorites are spending time with my wife, hiking, fishing, canoeing, golfing, playing pickleball, and grilling. Lately, I've also enjoyed DIY projects and maintenance on my car and house.

Catalina Aloman, MD

Hometown: Born in Laz, Romania, grew up in Denton, TX

Medical school: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? The opportunity to learn everything I can about orthopaedics in the amazing culture this program has cultivated. The faculty and residents both have a strong dedication to the furtherance of education and maintaining a sense of camaraderie. While on rotation here as a 4th year medical student I saw how residents would go out of their way to help one another whenever they could. The care the individuals at this program have for each other and the community they serve made me know that this was the place I wanted to be, and I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the program.

Clinical interests: I have enjoyed the complexity and variety I have seen in orthopaedic trauma cases along with the joy of healing children in pediatric orthopaedic surgery. I aim to broaden my horizons and gain more experience in all the subspecialties as I continue my learning.

Hobbies: Any and all sports, a day out in the sun is the best! In my free time you can usually find me baking, cooking, reading, or being out in the water. My husband and I both enjoy spending time exploring new restaurants or trying out new recipes ourselves.

Thomas Geissler

Hometown: Hudson, WI

Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? After spending a month rotating at Corewell Health in West Michigan during medical school, I knew immediately that this was where I wanted to train. The camaraderie among residents was unmatched—this program truly feels like a family. The faculty are deeply invested in resident success, and the program offers a high clinical volume, strong operative experience, and ample research and mentorship opportunities. It checked every box for me, and I'm excited to get started and contribute to the team.

Clinical interests: I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship in Sports Medicine or Arthroplasty. That said, I'm eager to broaden my exposure to all orthopaedic subspecialties and am keeping an open mind as I continue to learn and grow.

Hobbies: I love being outdoors and staying active—whether that's playing hockey, golf, and volleyball, or training for triathlons. I'm looking forward to exploring everything West Michigan has to offer, from camping and fishing to skiing. When I'm looking to relax, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and grabbing a beer at one of the many local breweries—after all, Grand Rapids is Beer City, USA.

Corbin Merchant, MD

Hometown: Great Falls, MT

Medical school: University of Washington

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited about training in Grand Rapids because of the people. During my rotation as a medical student, the residents and faculty were eager to teach me and help me excel. It was also readily apparent that the program supported the residents and listened to their feedback in order to create the best learning environment possible. I immediately knew that Grand Rapids had the culture and camaraderie I was looking for.

Clinical interests: I'm currently undecided on which fellowship I'd like to pursue. If I had to choose, I would say that trauma, joints, or hand/upper extremity are my top three at the moment.

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy anything outside, particularly skiing, golfing, biking, camping, and floating. When I want to lounge around the house, I enjoy reading or watching YouTube.

Marquisha Myles, MD

Hometown: Detroit, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to train at a program that deeply values community, mentorship, and the holistic growth of its residents. What stood out to me about Corewell Health in West Michigan, and I believe will remain true, is the culture of support among residents and attendings, the hands-on exposure to complex cases, and the program's dedication to developing both technical skill and compassionate care. I look forward to contributing my full self, clinically, intellectually, and personally, over the next five years.

Clinical interests: I continue to be curious about the breadth of subspecialties within orthopaedic surgery. I am especially passionate about advancing health equity and aspire to build a career that integrates clinical excellence with mentorship, advocacy, and innovation.

Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I enjoy painting, listening to music, and exploring mindfulness practices such as meditation. I also love traveling, both domestically and internationally. These hobbies not only bring me joy but help me show up more grounded and present in all aspects of my life.

Torben Urdahl, MD

Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I first heard about the program from a close mentor in medical school who is a graduate of the program at Corewell Health in West Michigan, and her excellent endorsement led me to pursue an away rotation here. My rotation exceeded my expectations in every way. The program fosters a strong, supportive culture among residents, has exceptional teaching faculty across all subspecialties, and has outstanding ancillary support. I feel extremely privileged to have the opportunity to continue my professional development in such an environment, and Grand Rapids is a beautiful area to spend these five years.

Clinical interests: Throughout my sub-internships in orthopedic surgery, both at my home institution and during away rotations, I have found that I like many aspects of each subspecialty. I look forward to discovering which area I'll ultimately pursue over the course of residency.

Hobbies: I love spending time outdoors whenever I can. Some personal favorites are spending time with my wife, hiking, fishing, canoeing, golfing, playing pickleball, and grilling. Lately, I've also enjoyed DIY projects and maintenance on my car and house.

Catalina Aloman, MD

Hometown: Born in Laz, Romania, grew up in Denton, TX

Medical school: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? The opportunity to learn everything I can about orthopaedics in the amazing culture this program has cultivated. The faculty and residents both have a strong dedication to the furtherance of education and maintaining a sense of camaraderie. While on rotation here as a 4th year medical student I saw how residents would go out of their way to help one another whenever they could. The care the individuals at this program have for each other and the community they serve made me know that this was the place I wanted to be, and I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the program.

Clinical interests: I have enjoyed the complexity and variety I have seen in orthopaedic trauma cases along with the joy of healing children in pediatric orthopaedic surgery. I aim to broaden my horizons and gain more experience in all the subspecialties as I continue my learning.

Hobbies: Any and all sports, a day out in the sun is the best! In my free time you can usually find me baking, cooking, reading, or being out in the water. My husband and I both enjoy spending time exploring new restaurants or trying out new recipes ourselves.

Thomas Geissler

Hometown: Hudson, WI

Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? After spending a month rotating at Corewell Health in West Michigan during medical school, I knew immediately that this was where I wanted to train. The camaraderie among residents was unmatched—this program truly feels like a family. The faculty are deeply invested in resident success, and the program offers a high clinical volume, strong operative experience, and ample research and mentorship opportunities. It checked every box for me, and I'm excited to get started and contribute to the team.

Clinical interests: I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship in Sports Medicine or Arthroplasty. That said, I'm eager to broaden my exposure to all orthopaedic subspecialties and am keeping an open mind as I continue to learn and grow.

Hobbies: I love being outdoors and staying active—whether that's playing hockey, golf, and volleyball, or training for triathlons. I'm looking forward to exploring everything West Michigan has to offer, from camping and fishing to skiing. When I'm looking to relax, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, reading, and grabbing a beer at one of the many local breweries—after all, Grand Rapids is Beer City, USA.

Corbin Merchant, MD

Hometown: Great Falls, MT

Medical school: University of Washington

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited about training in Grand Rapids because of the people. During my rotation as a medical student, the residents and faculty were eager to teach me and help me excel. It was also readily apparent that the program supported the residents and listened to their feedback in order to create the best learning environment possible. I immediately knew that Grand Rapids had the culture and camaraderie I was looking for.

Clinical interests: I'm currently undecided on which fellowship I'd like to pursue. If I had to choose, I would say that trauma, joints, or hand/upper extremity are my top three at the moment.

Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy anything outside, particularly skiing, golfing, biking, camping, and floating. When I want to lounge around the house, I enjoy reading or watching YouTube.

Marquisha Myles, MD

Hometown: Detroit, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to train at a program that deeply values community, mentorship, and the holistic growth of its residents. What stood out to me about Corewell Health in West Michigan, and I believe will remain true, is the culture of support among residents and attendings, the hands-on exposure to complex cases, and the program's dedication to developing both technical skill and compassionate care. I look forward to contributing my full self, clinically, intellectually, and personally, over the next five years.

Clinical interests: I continue to be curious about the breadth of subspecialties within orthopaedic surgery. I am especially passionate about advancing health equity and aspire to build a career that integrates clinical excellence with mentorship, advocacy, and innovation.

Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I enjoy painting, listening to music, and exploring mindfulness practices such as meditation. I also love traveling, both domestically and internationally. These hobbies not only bring me joy but help me show up more grounded and present in all aspects of my life.

Torben Urdahl, MD

Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I first heard about the program from a close mentor in medical school who is a graduate of the program at Corewell Health in West Michigan, and her excellent endorsement led me to pursue an away rotation here. My rotation exceeded my expectations in every way. The program fosters a strong, supportive culture among residents, has exceptional teaching faculty across all subspecialties, and has outstanding ancillary support. I feel extremely privileged to have the opportunity to continue my professional development in such an environment, and Grand Rapids is a beautiful area to spend these five years.

Clinical interests: Throughout my sub-internships in orthopedic surgery, both at my home institution and during away rotations, I have found that I like many aspects of each subspecialty. I look forward to discovering which area I'll ultimately pursue over the course of residency.

Hobbies: I love spending time outdoors whenever I can. Some personal favorites are spending time with my wife, hiking, fishing, canoeing, golfing, playing pickleball, and grilling. Lately, I've also enjoyed DIY projects and maintenance on my car and house.

PGY 2

Steven Elicegui, MD

Hometown: Reno, NV

Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I initially discovered this program through attendings who raved about the program's reputation of training exceptional surgeons, with impressive volume and top-tier culture amongst residents and attendings. After rotating here as a 4th year medical student, it far exceeded my expectations. It is a resident-centered program that provides early orthopedics exposure with strong leadership and faculty dedicated to teaching. The facilities, ranging from Level-1 trauma center with a large catchment area to ambulatory surgical centers, provide exposure to all levels of care and subspecialties in West Michigan. The camaraderie amongst the residents was unmatched; on rotation, they never hesitated to help each other on busy call shifts, teach in the emergency department and operating room, and all spent time together outside of work. This program checked all the boxes I was hoping for in a residency. It is in an incredible location that provides affordable living, with everything I could want in the city and convenient outdoor access.

Clinical interests: My current interests are in trauma, as I enjoy the challenge presented by complex fractures and fracture non-unions; I am also interested in adult reconstruction. I am keeping an open mind and looking forward to exploring more subspecialties during my residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy exploring local eateries and breweries with my wife and spending time outside camping, fly fishing, and upland hunting with our dog Willow.

Alexander Phillips, MD

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to join this residency program not only because of the excellent surgical experience, but especially due to the exceptional culture of the program. Throughout all of my experiences with the orthopedic residents and attendings at Corewell Health in West Michigan, I have been impressed by the dedication to teaching and mentoring between both the faculty and residents and amongst the residents themselves. I am excited to become part of a program with such a strong sense of camaraderie and look forward to carrying on the example set by the members of this program.

Clinical interests: The majority of my experience with orthopedics thus far has been with arthroplasty, trauma, and foot and ankle surgery. I am looking forward to exploring more areas of orthopedics as I determine which subspecialty I would like to pursue.

Hobbies: My hobbies and interests include exercising, cooking, and designing and building tools and miniature machines.

Michael Sahara, MD

Hometown: Petoskey, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to continue my medical training at a program that values camaraderie and provides residents with excellent training. Having completed medical school in Grand Rapids, I had the opportunity to directly work with both residents and attendings. Additionally, I was able to discuss the program with current residents. Their passion and confidence in the program spoke volumes to me and I am very thankful that I will be spending the next five years here.

Clinical interests: So far, I have enjoyed every area of orthopedic surgery that I have been exposed to. I look forward to continuing to learn about the different subspecialties over the course of my training.

Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, weightlifting, crossword puzzles, and reading.

Austin Smith, MD

Hometown: Milford, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am most excited to form relationships with fellow residents and faculty members as I gain the skills and knowledge to be an excellent surgeon. As a rotating medical student, I quickly learned that this program is unmatched in terms of operative and clinical volume, dedication to education, camaraderie between residents and faculty, and strong leadership figures. Individuals in this program truly care about one another and the community that they serve and I am incredibly excited to learn from and with them.

Clinical interests: My clinical interests are broad at this stage in my training as I am undecided regarding future fellowship training. I am fortunate and appreciative to be joining a program that allows for outstanding exposure to each subspecialty. I enjoy teaching and hope to incorporate it into my career.

Hobbies: Most of my hobbies involve staying active and being in the outdoors including golf, fishing, canoe trips, snowboarding, hiking with my golden retriever, and weight lifting. Of course, nothing beats time with friends and family.

Galloway Thurston, MD

Hometown: St. Ignace, MI

MedicalsSchool: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? The combination of this program's emphasis on surgical excellence, comradery amongst residents, faculty, and staff, and family friendliness is what drew me here, and I am thrilled to be able to learn in this environment for the next five years. Grand Rapids is a pretty awesome city on top of all that, too!

Clinical interests: I am undecided at this point and am looking forward to learning as much as I can on each rotation.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my wife and daughter at the park, library, beach, etc. Otherwise, I try to get out fishing and bowhunting as much as I can.

Steven Elicegui, MD

Hometown: Reno, NV

Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I initially discovered this program through attendings who raved about the program's reputation of training exceptional surgeons, with impressive volume and top-tier culture amongst residents and attendings. After rotating here as a 4th year medical student, it far exceeded my expectations. It is a resident-centered program that provides early orthopedics exposure with strong leadership and faculty dedicated to teaching. The facilities, ranging from Level-1 trauma center with a large catchment area to ambulatory surgical centers, provide exposure to all levels of care and subspecialties in West Michigan. The camaraderie amongst the residents was unmatched; on rotation, they never hesitated to help each other on busy call shifts, teach in the emergency department and operating room, and all spent time together outside of work. This program checked all the boxes I was hoping for in a residency. It is in an incredible location that provides affordable living, with everything I could want in the city and convenient outdoor access.

Clinical interests: My current interests are in trauma, as I enjoy the challenge presented by complex fractures and fracture non-unions; I am also interested in adult reconstruction. I am keeping an open mind and looking forward to exploring more subspecialties during my residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy exploring local eateries and breweries with my wife and spending time outside camping, fly fishing, and upland hunting with our dog Willow.

Alexander Phillips, MD

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to join this residency program not only because of the excellent surgical experience, but especially due to the exceptional culture of the program. Throughout all of my experiences with the orthopedic residents and attendings at Corewell Health in West Michigan, I have been impressed by the dedication to teaching and mentoring between both the faculty and residents and amongst the residents themselves. I am excited to become part of a program with such a strong sense of camaraderie and look forward to carrying on the example set by the members of this program.

Clinical interests: The majority of my experience with orthopedics thus far has been with arthroplasty, trauma, and foot and ankle surgery. I am looking forward to exploring more areas of orthopedics as I determine which subspecialty I would like to pursue.

Hobbies: My hobbies and interests include exercising, cooking, and designing and building tools and miniature machines.

Michael Sahara, MD

Hometown: Petoskey, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to continue my medical training at a program that values camaraderie and provides residents with excellent training. Having completed medical school in Grand Rapids, I had the opportunity to directly work with both residents and attendings. Additionally, I was able to discuss the program with current residents. Their passion and confidence in the program spoke volumes to me and I am very thankful that I will be spending the next five years here.

Clinical interests: So far, I have enjoyed every area of orthopedic surgery that I have been exposed to. I look forward to continuing to learn about the different subspecialties over the course of my training.

Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, weightlifting, crossword puzzles, and reading.

Austin Smith, MD

Hometown: Milford, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am most excited to form relationships with fellow residents and faculty members as I gain the skills and knowledge to be an excellent surgeon. As a rotating medical student, I quickly learned that this program is unmatched in terms of operative and clinical volume, dedication to education, camaraderie between residents and faculty, and strong leadership figures. Individuals in this program truly care about one another and the community that they serve and I am incredibly excited to learn from and with them.

Clinical interests: My clinical interests are broad at this stage in my training as I am undecided regarding future fellowship training. I am fortunate and appreciative to be joining a program that allows for outstanding exposure to each subspecialty. I enjoy teaching and hope to incorporate it into my career.

Hobbies: Most of my hobbies involve staying active and being in the outdoors including golf, fishing, canoe trips, snowboarding, hiking with my golden retriever, and weight lifting. Of course, nothing beats time with friends and family.

Galloway Thurston, MD

Hometown: St. Ignace, MI

MedicalsSchool: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? The combination of this program's emphasis on surgical excellence, comradery amongst residents, faculty, and staff, and family friendliness is what drew me here, and I am thrilled to be able to learn in this environment for the next five years. Grand Rapids is a pretty awesome city on top of all that, too!

Clinical interests: I am undecided at this point and am looking forward to learning as much as I can on each rotation.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my wife and daughter at the park, library, beach, etc. Otherwise, I try to get out fishing and bowhunting as much as I can.

Steven Elicegui, MD

Hometown: Reno, NV

Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I initially discovered this program through attendings who raved about the program's reputation of training exceptional surgeons, with impressive volume and top-tier culture amongst residents and attendings. After rotating here as a 4th year medical student, it far exceeded my expectations. It is a resident-centered program that provides early orthopedics exposure with strong leadership and faculty dedicated to teaching. The facilities, ranging from Level-1 trauma center with a large catchment area to ambulatory surgical centers, provide exposure to all levels of care and subspecialties in West Michigan. The camaraderie amongst the residents was unmatched; on rotation, they never hesitated to help each other on busy call shifts, teach in the emergency department and operating room, and all spent time together outside of work. This program checked all the boxes I was hoping for in a residency. It is in an incredible location that provides affordable living, with everything I could want in the city and convenient outdoor access.

Clinical interests: My current interests are in trauma, as I enjoy the challenge presented by complex fractures and fracture non-unions; I am also interested in adult reconstruction. I am keeping an open mind and looking forward to exploring more subspecialties during my residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy exploring local eateries and breweries with my wife and spending time outside camping, fly fishing, and upland hunting with our dog Willow.

Alexander Phillips, MD

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to join this residency program not only because of the excellent surgical experience, but especially due to the exceptional culture of the program. Throughout all of my experiences with the orthopedic residents and attendings at Corewell Health in West Michigan, I have been impressed by the dedication to teaching and mentoring between both the faculty and residents and amongst the residents themselves. I am excited to become part of a program with such a strong sense of camaraderie and look forward to carrying on the example set by the members of this program.

Clinical interests: The majority of my experience with orthopedics thus far has been with arthroplasty, trauma, and foot and ankle surgery. I am looking forward to exploring more areas of orthopedics as I determine which subspecialty I would like to pursue.

Hobbies: My hobbies and interests include exercising, cooking, and designing and building tools and miniature machines.

Michael Sahara, MD

Hometown: Petoskey, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to continue my medical training at a program that values camaraderie and provides residents with excellent training. Having completed medical school in Grand Rapids, I had the opportunity to directly work with both residents and attendings. Additionally, I was able to discuss the program with current residents. Their passion and confidence in the program spoke volumes to me and I am very thankful that I will be spending the next five years here.

Clinical interests: So far, I have enjoyed every area of orthopedic surgery that I have been exposed to. I look forward to continuing to learn about the different subspecialties over the course of my training.

Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, weightlifting, crossword puzzles, and reading.

Austin Smith, MD

Hometown: Milford, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am most excited to form relationships with fellow residents and faculty members as I gain the skills and knowledge to be an excellent surgeon. As a rotating medical student, I quickly learned that this program is unmatched in terms of operative and clinical volume, dedication to education, camaraderie between residents and faculty, and strong leadership figures. Individuals in this program truly care about one another and the community that they serve and I am incredibly excited to learn from and with them.

Clinical interests: My clinical interests are broad at this stage in my training as I am undecided regarding future fellowship training. I am fortunate and appreciative to be joining a program that allows for outstanding exposure to each subspecialty. I enjoy teaching and hope to incorporate it into my career.

Hobbies: Most of my hobbies involve staying active and being in the outdoors including golf, fishing, canoe trips, snowboarding, hiking with my golden retriever, and weight lifting. Of course, nothing beats time with friends and family.

Galloway Thurston, MD

Hometown: St. Ignace, MI

MedicalsSchool: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? The combination of this program's emphasis on surgical excellence, comradery amongst residents, faculty, and staff, and family friendliness is what drew me here, and I am thrilled to be able to learn in this environment for the next five years. Grand Rapids is a pretty awesome city on top of all that, too!

Clinical interests: I am undecided at this point and am looking forward to learning as much as I can on each rotation.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my wife and daughter at the park, library, beach, etc. Otherwise, I try to get out fishing and bowhunting as much as I can.

Steven Elicegui, MD

Hometown: Reno, NV

Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I initially discovered this program through attendings who raved about the program's reputation of training exceptional surgeons, with impressive volume and top-tier culture amongst residents and attendings. After rotating here as a 4th year medical student, it far exceeded my expectations. It is a resident-centered program that provides early orthopedics exposure with strong leadership and faculty dedicated to teaching. The facilities, ranging from Level-1 trauma center with a large catchment area to ambulatory surgical centers, provide exposure to all levels of care and subspecialties in West Michigan. The camaraderie amongst the residents was unmatched; on rotation, they never hesitated to help each other on busy call shifts, teach in the emergency department and operating room, and all spent time together outside of work. This program checked all the boxes I was hoping for in a residency. It is in an incredible location that provides affordable living, with everything I could want in the city and convenient outdoor access.

Clinical interests: My current interests are in trauma, as I enjoy the challenge presented by complex fractures and fracture non-unions; I am also interested in adult reconstruction. I am keeping an open mind and looking forward to exploring more subspecialties during my residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy exploring local eateries and breweries with my wife and spending time outside camping, fly fishing, and upland hunting with our dog Willow.

Alexander Phillips, MD

Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to join this residency program not only because of the excellent surgical experience, but especially due to the exceptional culture of the program. Throughout all of my experiences with the orthopedic residents and attendings at Corewell Health in West Michigan, I have been impressed by the dedication to teaching and mentoring between both the faculty and residents and amongst the residents themselves. I am excited to become part of a program with such a strong sense of camaraderie and look forward to carrying on the example set by the members of this program.

Clinical interests: The majority of my experience with orthopedics thus far has been with arthroplasty, trauma, and foot and ankle surgery. I am looking forward to exploring more areas of orthopedics as I determine which subspecialty I would like to pursue.

Hobbies: My hobbies and interests include exercising, cooking, and designing and building tools and miniature machines.

Michael Sahara, MD

Hometown: Petoskey, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am excited to continue my medical training at a program that values camaraderie and provides residents with excellent training. Having completed medical school in Grand Rapids, I had the opportunity to directly work with both residents and attendings. Additionally, I was able to discuss the program with current residents. Their passion and confidence in the program spoke volumes to me and I am very thankful that I will be spending the next five years here.

Clinical interests: So far, I have enjoyed every area of orthopedic surgery that I have been exposed to. I look forward to continuing to learn about the different subspecialties over the course of my training.

Hobbies: In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, weightlifting, crossword puzzles, and reading.

Austin Smith, MD

Hometown: Milford, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? I am most excited to form relationships with fellow residents and faculty members as I gain the skills and knowledge to be an excellent surgeon. As a rotating medical student, I quickly learned that this program is unmatched in terms of operative and clinical volume, dedication to education, camaraderie between residents and faculty, and strong leadership figures. Individuals in this program truly care about one another and the community that they serve and I am incredibly excited to learn from and with them.

Clinical interests: My clinical interests are broad at this stage in my training as I am undecided regarding future fellowship training. I am fortunate and appreciative to be joining a program that allows for outstanding exposure to each subspecialty. I enjoy teaching and hope to incorporate it into my career.

Hobbies: Most of my hobbies involve staying active and being in the outdoors including golf, fishing, canoe trips, snowboarding, hiking with my golden retriever, and weight lifting. Of course, nothing beats time with friends and family.

Galloway Thurston, MD

Hometown: St. Ignace, MI

MedicalsSchool: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health in West Michigan? The combination of this program's emphasis on surgical excellence, comradery amongst residents, faculty, and staff, and family friendliness is what drew me here, and I am thrilled to be able to learn in this environment for the next five years. Grand Rapids is a pretty awesome city on top of all that, too!

Clinical interests: I am undecided at this point and am looking forward to learning as much as I can on each rotation.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my wife and daughter at the park, library, beach, etc. Otherwise, I try to get out fishing and bowhunting as much as I can.

PGY 3

James Gannon, MD

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? During the fall of my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to spend a month as a rotating student where I worked hands-on with many of the residents and faculty at several of the hospital sites. What I saw was a strong sense of camaraderie as well as a culture geared heavily towards teaching. I am excited to not only be a part of that experience but to help continue that for future residents and students.

Clinical interests: While I am currently undecided about my future career path, I have had the opportunity to rotate through several orthopedic subspecialties including trauma, joints, hand, and spine. Each area piques my interest in different ways and I am looking forward to building upon these experiences over the next five years.

Hobbies: Outside of the hospital, I enjoy running along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and practicing my German.

Parin Kothari, MD

Hometown: Novi, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? Having spent the majority of my adult life in West Michigan, my interest in orthopedic surgery actually began here in Grand Rapids. I was exposed to this residency early on as a premedical student while scribing at the local orthopedic clinic and continued working with the program throughout medical school. My decision to pursue my surgical training here was solidified after completing my away rotations and interviews as a 4th-year medical student. This program has a history of being exceptionally well-rounded in terms of operative volume, resident education, dedicated faculty, graduated autonomy, and location. In addition to an excellent clinical experience, the camaraderie between the residents and faculty is truly the backbone of this program. Everyone here is deeply invested in helping you progress as both a physician and leader in the community. I truly believe this is one of the best programs in the country and am thrilled to continue my training here.

Clinical interests: My current interests include upper and lower extremity trauma, as well as adult reconstruction. In addition to my clinical interests, I enjoy teaching as well. I am excited to explore the variety of subspecialties this program has to offer as I continue my surgical training.

Hobbies: During the warm months, I enjoy playing golf, running, and hiking with my dog, surfing on Lake Michigan, and biking. In the winter, I like to ski, snowboard, play pond hockey, and sneak in some indoor simulator golf at one of the local golf clubs. I also enjoy long road trips where I get to live out of my car.

Thomas Riggs, MD

Hometown: Fort Atkinson, WI

Medical school: Loma Linda University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited about the people here. When rotating here as a medical student, I was quickly impressed by the culture among residents and the faculty's dedication to education. I am also excited about what living in Grand Rapids has to offer me and my family.

Clinical interests: I am currently undecided. I have enjoyed all my orthopedic experiences, especially rotations on joints, hands, and sports.

Hobbies: I enjoy camping, hiking, skiing, and going to the lake with my family. I love playing spikeball and pickleball. I also enjoy watching the Packers, Bucks, and Brewers.

Austin VanWyk, MD

Hometown: Dorr, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to start a residency at a program that values camaraderie between the residents and its faculty. The residents truly care about each other's well-being and education. Additionally, I am excited by the early hands-on approach to training with excellent clinical volume from the large area that Corewell Health in West Michigan serves. Finally, it's hard to beat West Michigan for a place to live.

Clinical interests: At this stage in my training, I am interested in many of the different areas of orthopedics. Although joints and trauma have been most interesting to me so far, I look forward to exploring each subspecialty more as I progress through residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, hammocking, and canoeing. I also enjoy spending time with my fiancée, dog, and cat around the house.

Kirk Welsh, MD

Hometown: Shelby, IA

Medical school: University of Iowa

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited to become a member of the awesome family that is the residents and faculty of the orthopedic residency program here. It makes for an excellent, collegial learning environment which is exactly what I was looking for in a residency program.
Clinical Interests: At this time, I'm unsure of my subspecialty interests—I've enjoyed everything I've seen so far!

Hobbies: Most of my spare time is spent with my wife, our two young sons, and our 120 lb dog! Outside of that, I enjoy skiing, reading, and fantasy football!

James Gannon, MD

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? During the fall of my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to spend a month as a rotating student where I worked hands-on with many of the residents and faculty at several of the hospital sites. What I saw was a strong sense of camaraderie as well as a culture geared heavily towards teaching. I am excited to not only be a part of that experience but to help continue that for future residents and students.

Clinical interests: While I am currently undecided about my future career path, I have had the opportunity to rotate through several orthopedic subspecialties including trauma, joints, hand, and spine. Each area piques my interest in different ways and I am looking forward to building upon these experiences over the next five years.

Hobbies: Outside of the hospital, I enjoy running along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and practicing my German.

Parin Kothari, MD

Hometown: Novi, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? Having spent the majority of my adult life in West Michigan, my interest in orthopedic surgery actually began here in Grand Rapids. I was exposed to this residency early on as a premedical student while scribing at the local orthopedic clinic and continued working with the program throughout medical school. My decision to pursue my surgical training here was solidified after completing my away rotations and interviews as a 4th-year medical student. This program has a history of being exceptionally well-rounded in terms of operative volume, resident education, dedicated faculty, graduated autonomy, and location. In addition to an excellent clinical experience, the camaraderie between the residents and faculty is truly the backbone of this program. Everyone here is deeply invested in helping you progress as both a physician and leader in the community. I truly believe this is one of the best programs in the country and am thrilled to continue my training here.

Clinical interests: My current interests include upper and lower extremity trauma, as well as adult reconstruction. In addition to my clinical interests, I enjoy teaching as well. I am excited to explore the variety of subspecialties this program has to offer as I continue my surgical training.

Hobbies: During the warm months, I enjoy playing golf, running, and hiking with my dog, surfing on Lake Michigan, and biking. In the winter, I like to ski, snowboard, play pond hockey, and sneak in some indoor simulator golf at one of the local golf clubs. I also enjoy long road trips where I get to live out of my car.

Thomas Riggs, MD

Hometown: Fort Atkinson, WI

Medical school: Loma Linda University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited about the people here. When rotating here as a medical student, I was quickly impressed by the culture among residents and the faculty's dedication to education. I am also excited about what living in Grand Rapids has to offer me and my family.

Clinical interests: I am currently undecided. I have enjoyed all my orthopedic experiences, especially rotations on joints, hands, and sports.

Hobbies: I enjoy camping, hiking, skiing, and going to the lake with my family. I love playing spikeball and pickleball. I also enjoy watching the Packers, Bucks, and Brewers.

Austin VanWyk, MD

Hometown: Dorr, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to start a residency at a program that values camaraderie between the residents and its faculty. The residents truly care about each other's well-being and education. Additionally, I am excited by the early hands-on approach to training with excellent clinical volume from the large area that Corewell Health in West Michigan serves. Finally, it's hard to beat West Michigan for a place to live.

Clinical interests: At this stage in my training, I am interested in many of the different areas of orthopedics. Although joints and trauma have been most interesting to me so far, I look forward to exploring each subspecialty more as I progress through residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, hammocking, and canoeing. I also enjoy spending time with my fiancée, dog, and cat around the house.

Kirk Welsh, MD

Hometown: Shelby, IA

Medical school: University of Iowa

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited to become a member of the awesome family that is the residents and faculty of the orthopedic residency program here. It makes for an excellent, collegial learning environment which is exactly what I was looking for in a residency program.
Clinical Interests: At this time, I'm unsure of my subspecialty interests—I've enjoyed everything I've seen so far!

Hobbies: Most of my spare time is spent with my wife, our two young sons, and our 120 lb dog! Outside of that, I enjoy skiing, reading, and fantasy football!

James Gannon, MD

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? During the fall of my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to spend a month as a rotating student where I worked hands-on with many of the residents and faculty at several of the hospital sites. What I saw was a strong sense of camaraderie as well as a culture geared heavily towards teaching. I am excited to not only be a part of that experience but to help continue that for future residents and students.

Clinical interests: While I am currently undecided about my future career path, I have had the opportunity to rotate through several orthopedic subspecialties including trauma, joints, hand, and spine. Each area piques my interest in different ways and I am looking forward to building upon these experiences over the next five years.

Hobbies: Outside of the hospital, I enjoy running along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and practicing my German.

Parin Kothari, MD

Hometown: Novi, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? Having spent the majority of my adult life in West Michigan, my interest in orthopedic surgery actually began here in Grand Rapids. I was exposed to this residency early on as a premedical student while scribing at the local orthopedic clinic and continued working with the program throughout medical school. My decision to pursue my surgical training here was solidified after completing my away rotations and interviews as a 4th-year medical student. This program has a history of being exceptionally well-rounded in terms of operative volume, resident education, dedicated faculty, graduated autonomy, and location. In addition to an excellent clinical experience, the camaraderie between the residents and faculty is truly the backbone of this program. Everyone here is deeply invested in helping you progress as both a physician and leader in the community. I truly believe this is one of the best programs in the country and am thrilled to continue my training here.

Clinical interests: My current interests include upper and lower extremity trauma, as well as adult reconstruction. In addition to my clinical interests, I enjoy teaching as well. I am excited to explore the variety of subspecialties this program has to offer as I continue my surgical training.

Hobbies: During the warm months, I enjoy playing golf, running, and hiking with my dog, surfing on Lake Michigan, and biking. In the winter, I like to ski, snowboard, play pond hockey, and sneak in some indoor simulator golf at one of the local golf clubs. I also enjoy long road trips where I get to live out of my car.

Thomas Riggs, MD

Hometown: Fort Atkinson, WI

Medical school: Loma Linda University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited about the people here. When rotating here as a medical student, I was quickly impressed by the culture among residents and the faculty's dedication to education. I am also excited about what living in Grand Rapids has to offer me and my family.

Clinical interests: I am currently undecided. I have enjoyed all my orthopedic experiences, especially rotations on joints, hands, and sports.

Hobbies: I enjoy camping, hiking, skiing, and going to the lake with my family. I love playing spikeball and pickleball. I also enjoy watching the Packers, Bucks, and Brewers.

Austin VanWyk, MD

Hometown: Dorr, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to start a residency at a program that values camaraderie between the residents and its faculty. The residents truly care about each other's well-being and education. Additionally, I am excited by the early hands-on approach to training with excellent clinical volume from the large area that Corewell Health in West Michigan serves. Finally, it's hard to beat West Michigan for a place to live.

Clinical interests: At this stage in my training, I am interested in many of the different areas of orthopedics. Although joints and trauma have been most interesting to me so far, I look forward to exploring each subspecialty more as I progress through residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, hammocking, and canoeing. I also enjoy spending time with my fiancée, dog, and cat around the house.

Kirk Welsh, MD

Hometown: Shelby, IA

Medical school: University of Iowa

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited to become a member of the awesome family that is the residents and faculty of the orthopedic residency program here. It makes for an excellent, collegial learning environment which is exactly what I was looking for in a residency program.
Clinical Interests: At this time, I'm unsure of my subspecialty interests—I've enjoyed everything I've seen so far!

Hobbies: Most of my spare time is spent with my wife, our two young sons, and our 120 lb dog! Outside of that, I enjoy skiing, reading, and fantasy football!

James Gannon, MD

Hometown: St. Paul, MN

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? During the fall of my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to spend a month as a rotating student where I worked hands-on with many of the residents and faculty at several of the hospital sites. What I saw was a strong sense of camaraderie as well as a culture geared heavily towards teaching. I am excited to not only be a part of that experience but to help continue that for future residents and students.

Clinical interests: While I am currently undecided about my future career path, I have had the opportunity to rotate through several orthopedic subspecialties including trauma, joints, hand, and spine. Each area piques my interest in different ways and I am looking forward to building upon these experiences over the next five years.

Hobbies: Outside of the hospital, I enjoy running along the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and practicing my German.

Parin Kothari, MD

Hometown: Novi, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? Having spent the majority of my adult life in West Michigan, my interest in orthopedic surgery actually began here in Grand Rapids. I was exposed to this residency early on as a premedical student while scribing at the local orthopedic clinic and continued working with the program throughout medical school. My decision to pursue my surgical training here was solidified after completing my away rotations and interviews as a 4th-year medical student. This program has a history of being exceptionally well-rounded in terms of operative volume, resident education, dedicated faculty, graduated autonomy, and location. In addition to an excellent clinical experience, the camaraderie between the residents and faculty is truly the backbone of this program. Everyone here is deeply invested in helping you progress as both a physician and leader in the community. I truly believe this is one of the best programs in the country and am thrilled to continue my training here.

Clinical interests: My current interests include upper and lower extremity trauma, as well as adult reconstruction. In addition to my clinical interests, I enjoy teaching as well. I am excited to explore the variety of subspecialties this program has to offer as I continue my surgical training.

Hobbies: During the warm months, I enjoy playing golf, running, and hiking with my dog, surfing on Lake Michigan, and biking. In the winter, I like to ski, snowboard, play pond hockey, and sneak in some indoor simulator golf at one of the local golf clubs. I also enjoy long road trips where I get to live out of my car.

Thomas Riggs, MD

Hometown: Fort Atkinson, WI

Medical school: Loma Linda University

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited about the people here. When rotating here as a medical student, I was quickly impressed by the culture among residents and the faculty's dedication to education. I am also excited about what living in Grand Rapids has to offer me and my family.

Clinical interests: I am currently undecided. I have enjoyed all my orthopedic experiences, especially rotations on joints, hands, and sports.

Hobbies: I enjoy camping, hiking, skiing, and going to the lake with my family. I love playing spikeball and pickleball. I also enjoy watching the Packers, Bucks, and Brewers.

Austin VanWyk, MD

Hometown: Dorr, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I am excited to start a residency at a program that values camaraderie between the residents and its faculty. The residents truly care about each other's well-being and education. Additionally, I am excited by the early hands-on approach to training with excellent clinical volume from the large area that Corewell Health in West Michigan serves. Finally, it's hard to beat West Michigan for a place to live.

Clinical interests: At this stage in my training, I am interested in many of the different areas of orthopedics. Although joints and trauma have been most interesting to me so far, I look forward to exploring each subspecialty more as I progress through residency.

Hobbies: I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, hammocking, and canoeing. I also enjoy spending time with my fiancée, dog, and cat around the house.

Kirk Welsh, MD

Hometown: Shelby, IA

Medical school: University of Iowa

What excites you about your residency/fellowship at Corewell Health? I'm excited to become a member of the awesome family that is the residents and faculty of the orthopedic residency program here. It makes for an excellent, collegial learning environment which is exactly what I was looking for in a residency program.
Clinical Interests: At this time, I'm unsure of my subspecialty interests—I've enjoyed everything I've seen so far!

Hobbies: Most of my spare time is spent with my wife, our two young sons, and our 120 lb dog! Outside of that, I enjoy skiing, reading, and fantasy football!

PGY 4

Clayton Foster, MD

Hometown: Broomfield, CO

Medical school: University of Colorado

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of how much they care about resident education. It is made evident by their willingness to change policies in favor of our overall experience. Also, Grand Rapids is a pretty sweet place to live.

What are your clinical interests? At this stage in my training, I am most interested in orthopedic trauma. It really is the essence of orthopedics, and the cases are awesome.

Hobbies: I love fly fishing, camping, hiking, sports, and doing just about anything with my dog (Shark).

Tyler Janish, MD

Hometown: Whittemore, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? The three most important characteristics I was looking for in a program were an excellent operative experience, a great location to raise a family and enjoy some time outdoors, and a strong sense of camaraderie and support amongst the residents. I found all of that and more here in Grand Rapids.

What are your clinical interests? I plan on practicing general orthopedics in rural Michigan after my training.

Hobbies: I spend most of my time away from work with my wife and little guy back home. I also enjoy hunting and fishing up north where I grew up whenever I get the chance. If I'm not with family or in the great outdoors, you can probably catch me playing slow-pitch softball or flag football with the "Boneheads", our residency sports team.

Grace Peterson, MD

Hometown: Spring Lake, MI

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because it is a program with so much camaraderie and support among the residents that is visible in the hospital and the operating room, as well as while spending time together outside of the hospital. The attending faculty and residency leadership truly care for our well-being and value our education, which is at the core of every decision for the program. We have abundant operative experience including three different hospitals within the city of Grand Rapids serving different regions and patient populations to provide unique experiences and improve our skills. I also love Grand Rapids and West Michigan (which is home for me), and all that the lakeshore has to offer.

What are your clinical interests? I am planning to pursue a shoulder and elbow fellowship after completing my residency training.

Hobbies: I love to go camping and hiking with my husband. I adore spending time with him, as well as with my dog (Jazz) and my cat (Delilah). I enjoy weight lifting, drawing, painting, and crafting. I have several plants in my mini jungle at home and love caring for them, and enjoy hunting for rocks on Michigan beaches.

Clayton Foster, MD

Hometown: Broomfield, CO

Medical school: University of Colorado

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of how much they care about resident education. It is made evident by their willingness to change policies in favor of our overall experience. Also, Grand Rapids is a pretty sweet place to live.

What are your clinical interests? At this stage in my training, I am most interested in orthopedic trauma. It really is the essence of orthopedics, and the cases are awesome.

Hobbies: I love fly fishing, camping, hiking, sports, and doing just about anything with my dog (Shark).

Tyler Janish, MD

Hometown: Whittemore, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? The three most important characteristics I was looking for in a program were an excellent operative experience, a great location to raise a family and enjoy some time outdoors, and a strong sense of camaraderie and support amongst the residents. I found all of that and more here in Grand Rapids.

What are your clinical interests? I plan on practicing general orthopedics in rural Michigan after my training.

Hobbies: I spend most of my time away from work with my wife and little guy back home. I also enjoy hunting and fishing up north where I grew up whenever I get the chance. If I'm not with family or in the great outdoors, you can probably catch me playing slow-pitch softball or flag football with the "Boneheads", our residency sports team.

Grace Peterson, MD

Hometown: Spring Lake, MI

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because it is a program with so much camaraderie and support among the residents that is visible in the hospital and the operating room, as well as while spending time together outside of the hospital. The attending faculty and residency leadership truly care for our well-being and value our education, which is at the core of every decision for the program. We have abundant operative experience including three different hospitals within the city of Grand Rapids serving different regions and patient populations to provide unique experiences and improve our skills. I also love Grand Rapids and West Michigan (which is home for me), and all that the lakeshore has to offer.

What are your clinical interests? I am planning to pursue a shoulder and elbow fellowship after completing my residency training.

Hobbies: I love to go camping and hiking with my husband. I adore spending time with him, as well as with my dog (Jazz) and my cat (Delilah). I enjoy weight lifting, drawing, painting, and crafting. I have several plants in my mini jungle at home and love caring for them, and enjoy hunting for rocks on Michigan beaches.

Clayton Foster, MD

Hometown: Broomfield, CO

Medical school: University of Colorado

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of how much they care about resident education. It is made evident by their willingness to change policies in favor of our overall experience. Also, Grand Rapids is a pretty sweet place to live.

What are your clinical interests? At this stage in my training, I am most interested in orthopedic trauma. It really is the essence of orthopedics, and the cases are awesome.

Hobbies: I love fly fishing, camping, hiking, sports, and doing just about anything with my dog (Shark).

Tyler Janish, MD

Hometown: Whittemore, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? The three most important characteristics I was looking for in a program were an excellent operative experience, a great location to raise a family and enjoy some time outdoors, and a strong sense of camaraderie and support amongst the residents. I found all of that and more here in Grand Rapids.

What are your clinical interests? I plan on practicing general orthopedics in rural Michigan after my training.

Hobbies: I spend most of my time away from work with my wife and little guy back home. I also enjoy hunting and fishing up north where I grew up whenever I get the chance. If I'm not with family or in the great outdoors, you can probably catch me playing slow-pitch softball or flag football with the "Boneheads", our residency sports team.

Grace Peterson, MD

Hometown: Spring Lake, MI

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because it is a program with so much camaraderie and support among the residents that is visible in the hospital and the operating room, as well as while spending time together outside of the hospital. The attending faculty and residency leadership truly care for our well-being and value our education, which is at the core of every decision for the program. We have abundant operative experience including three different hospitals within the city of Grand Rapids serving different regions and patient populations to provide unique experiences and improve our skills. I also love Grand Rapids and West Michigan (which is home for me), and all that the lakeshore has to offer.

What are your clinical interests? I am planning to pursue a shoulder and elbow fellowship after completing my residency training.

Hobbies: I love to go camping and hiking with my husband. I adore spending time with him, as well as with my dog (Jazz) and my cat (Delilah). I enjoy weight lifting, drawing, painting, and crafting. I have several plants in my mini jungle at home and love caring for them, and enjoy hunting for rocks on Michigan beaches.

Clayton Foster, MD

Hometown: Broomfield, CO

Medical school: University of Colorado

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of how much they care about resident education. It is made evident by their willingness to change policies in favor of our overall experience. Also, Grand Rapids is a pretty sweet place to live.

What are your clinical interests? At this stage in my training, I am most interested in orthopedic trauma. It really is the essence of orthopedics, and the cases are awesome.

Hobbies: I love fly fishing, camping, hiking, sports, and doing just about anything with my dog (Shark).

Tyler Janish, MD

Hometown: Whittemore, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? The three most important characteristics I was looking for in a program were an excellent operative experience, a great location to raise a family and enjoy some time outdoors, and a strong sense of camaraderie and support amongst the residents. I found all of that and more here in Grand Rapids.

What are your clinical interests? I plan on practicing general orthopedics in rural Michigan after my training.

Hobbies: I spend most of my time away from work with my wife and little guy back home. I also enjoy hunting and fishing up north where I grew up whenever I get the chance. If I'm not with family or in the great outdoors, you can probably catch me playing slow-pitch softball or flag football with the "Boneheads", our residency sports team.

Grace Peterson, MD

Hometown: Spring Lake, MI

Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because it is a program with so much camaraderie and support among the residents that is visible in the hospital and the operating room, as well as while spending time together outside of the hospital. The attending faculty and residency leadership truly care for our well-being and value our education, which is at the core of every decision for the program. We have abundant operative experience including three different hospitals within the city of Grand Rapids serving different regions and patient populations to provide unique experiences and improve our skills. I also love Grand Rapids and West Michigan (which is home for me), and all that the lakeshore has to offer.

What are your clinical interests? I am planning to pursue a shoulder and elbow fellowship after completing my residency training.

Hobbies: I love to go camping and hiking with my husband. I adore spending time with him, as well as with my dog (Jazz) and my cat (Delilah). I enjoy weight lifting, drawing, painting, and crafting. I have several plants in my mini jungle at home and love caring for them, and enjoy hunting for rocks on Michigan beaches.

PGY 5

Alex Balboa, MD

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Medical school: University of Toledo College of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of the great residents and faculty I met from the program on interview day. Everyone I talked to felt very genuine in their interest to learn about me, to share about their program, and to share about the relationships they'd formed within the program. There is a great sense of community that I want to be a part of. I also knew that by choosing Corewell Health, I'd be entering a program through which I would gain the skills and training to be competent and confident in the next stages of my career. I also loved the fact that I would gain great exposure to a wide breadth and depth of subspecialties and practice environments.

What are your clinical interests? I will be completing a Trauma fellowship at the University of Tennessee/Erlanger Health Systems in Chattanooga.

Hobbies: My fiancé and I enjoy food and traveling. If we're not in the kitchen trying out new recipes, you can find us trying new restaurants and breweries. We also love to be outdoors and can't wait to explore West Michigan through hiking and road cycling. I also enjoy rock climbing, playing volleyball, and golfing.

Tyler Bilden, MD

Hometown: Northwood, ND

Medical school: University of North Dakota

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? Resident-centric culture, robust faculty-resident relationships, excellent history of producing highly skilled orthopedic surgeons.

What are your clinical interests? Everything shoulder/elbow, and will complete my fellowship at Stanford University.

Hobbies: Golf, softball, spending time with my twins.

Jessica Flakne

Hometown: Maple Plain, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was very impressed with Corewell Health after my virtual interview. I was drawn by the obvious camaraderie among the residents and skilled faculty that would prioritize my education. I wanted to stay in the Midwest for my training, and this program offered both excellent clinical and operative experience.

What are your clinical interests? I’ve enjoyed exploring all subspecialties in orthopedics and am looking forward to completing a Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Chicago.

Hobbies: My hobbies include baking, gardening, and other outdoor activities. I also enjoy rowing and look forward to finding a local boat club.

Tyler Madden

Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corwell Health for your residency/fellowship? The orthopedic surgery residency at Corewell Health is exceptionally well-rounded. The surgical training is comprehensive and high-volume, resident education is a clear priority, and there is a genuine camaraderie among residents. The program director is an outstanding advocate for resident,s and faculty are committed to training residents to develop the surgical and critical thinking skills to both excel as a surgeon and grow as an individual.

What are your clinical interests? My clinical interests particularly include adult reconstruction and trauma. Following residency, I will be undergoing subspecialty training in adult reconstruction at William Beaumont University Hospital in Metro Detroit.

Hobbies: In my downtime, I love spending time with my wife and daughter exploring Grand Rapids and other cities. I also enjoy playing golf, lifting weights, and snowboarding. Lately, I've been getting into hunting and Ironman triathlons.

Luke Winkel

Hometown: Troy, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was looking for a program that prioritizes education, offers strong mentorship, and provides robust operative experience—and the program truly embodies all these qualities. What stood out to me was not only the commitment of the attendings, but also the strong culture of learning and teaching among the residents themselves. This, combined with a sense of camaraderie among coresidents that feels genuinely unique, made it the ideal choice for my training.

What are your clinical interests? I have an interest in biomechanics and engineering biology's relation to disease processes and healthy lifestyles in the realm of orthopedics and beyond, and will do my Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Colorado.

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, camping, hockey, reading, and video games.

Alex Balboa, MD

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Medical school: University of Toledo College of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of the great residents and faculty I met from the program on interview day. Everyone I talked to felt very genuine in their interest to learn about me, to share about their program, and to share about the relationships they'd formed within the program. There is a great sense of community that I want to be a part of. I also knew that by choosing Corewell Health, I'd be entering a program through which I would gain the skills and training to be competent and confident in the next stages of my career. I also loved the fact that I would gain great exposure to a wide breadth and depth of subspecialties and practice environments.

What are your clinical interests? I will be completing a Trauma fellowship at the University of Tennessee/Erlanger Health Systems in Chattanooga.

Hobbies: My fiancé and I enjoy food and traveling. If we're not in the kitchen trying out new recipes, you can find us trying new restaurants and breweries. We also love to be outdoors and can't wait to explore West Michigan through hiking and road cycling. I also enjoy rock climbing, playing volleyball, and golfing.

Tyler Bilden, MD

Hometown: Northwood, ND

Medical school: University of North Dakota

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? Resident-centric culture, robust faculty-resident relationships, excellent history of producing highly skilled orthopedic surgeons.

What are your clinical interests? Everything shoulder/elbow, and will complete my fellowship at Stanford University.

Hobbies: Golf, softball, spending time with my twins.

Jessica Flakne

Hometown: Maple Plain, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was very impressed with Corewell Health after my virtual interview. I was drawn by the obvious camaraderie among the residents and skilled faculty that would prioritize my education. I wanted to stay in the Midwest for my training, and this program offered both excellent clinical and operative experience.

What are your clinical interests? I’ve enjoyed exploring all subspecialties in orthopedics and am looking forward to completing a Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Chicago.

Hobbies: My hobbies include baking, gardening, and other outdoor activities. I also enjoy rowing and look forward to finding a local boat club.

Tyler Madden

Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corwell Health for your residency/fellowship? The orthopedic surgery residency at Corewell Health is exceptionally well-rounded. The surgical training is comprehensive and high-volume, resident education is a clear priority, and there is a genuine camaraderie among residents. The program director is an outstanding advocate for resident,s and faculty are committed to training residents to develop the surgical and critical thinking skills to both excel as a surgeon and grow as an individual.

What are your clinical interests? My clinical interests particularly include adult reconstruction and trauma. Following residency, I will be undergoing subspecialty training in adult reconstruction at William Beaumont University Hospital in Metro Detroit.

Hobbies: In my downtime, I love spending time with my wife and daughter exploring Grand Rapids and other cities. I also enjoy playing golf, lifting weights, and snowboarding. Lately, I've been getting into hunting and Ironman triathlons.

Luke Winkel

Hometown: Troy, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was looking for a program that prioritizes education, offers strong mentorship, and provides robust operative experience—and the program truly embodies all these qualities. What stood out to me was not only the commitment of the attendings, but also the strong culture of learning and teaching among the residents themselves. This, combined with a sense of camaraderie among coresidents that feels genuinely unique, made it the ideal choice for my training.

What are your clinical interests? I have an interest in biomechanics and engineering biology's relation to disease processes and healthy lifestyles in the realm of orthopedics and beyond, and will do my Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Colorado.

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, camping, hockey, reading, and video games.

Alex Balboa, MD

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Medical school: University of Toledo College of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of the great residents and faculty I met from the program on interview day. Everyone I talked to felt very genuine in their interest to learn about me, to share about their program, and to share about the relationships they'd formed within the program. There is a great sense of community that I want to be a part of. I also knew that by choosing Corewell Health, I'd be entering a program through which I would gain the skills and training to be competent and confident in the next stages of my career. I also loved the fact that I would gain great exposure to a wide breadth and depth of subspecialties and practice environments.

What are your clinical interests? I will be completing a Trauma fellowship at the University of Tennessee/Erlanger Health Systems in Chattanooga.

Hobbies: My fiancé and I enjoy food and traveling. If we're not in the kitchen trying out new recipes, you can find us trying new restaurants and breweries. We also love to be outdoors and can't wait to explore West Michigan through hiking and road cycling. I also enjoy rock climbing, playing volleyball, and golfing.

Tyler Bilden, MD

Hometown: Northwood, ND

Medical school: University of North Dakota

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? Resident-centric culture, robust faculty-resident relationships, excellent history of producing highly skilled orthopedic surgeons.

What are your clinical interests? Everything shoulder/elbow, and will complete my fellowship at Stanford University.

Hobbies: Golf, softball, spending time with my twins.

Jessica Flakne

Hometown: Maple Plain, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was very impressed with Corewell Health after my virtual interview. I was drawn by the obvious camaraderie among the residents and skilled faculty that would prioritize my education. I wanted to stay in the Midwest for my training, and this program offered both excellent clinical and operative experience.

What are your clinical interests? I’ve enjoyed exploring all subspecialties in orthopedics and am looking forward to completing a Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Chicago.

Hobbies: My hobbies include baking, gardening, and other outdoor activities. I also enjoy rowing and look forward to finding a local boat club.

Tyler Madden

Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corwell Health for your residency/fellowship? The orthopedic surgery residency at Corewell Health is exceptionally well-rounded. The surgical training is comprehensive and high-volume, resident education is a clear priority, and there is a genuine camaraderie among residents. The program director is an outstanding advocate for resident,s and faculty are committed to training residents to develop the surgical and critical thinking skills to both excel as a surgeon and grow as an individual.

What are your clinical interests? My clinical interests particularly include adult reconstruction and trauma. Following residency, I will be undergoing subspecialty training in adult reconstruction at William Beaumont University Hospital in Metro Detroit.

Hobbies: In my downtime, I love spending time with my wife and daughter exploring Grand Rapids and other cities. I also enjoy playing golf, lifting weights, and snowboarding. Lately, I've been getting into hunting and Ironman triathlons.

Luke Winkel

Hometown: Troy, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was looking for a program that prioritizes education, offers strong mentorship, and provides robust operative experience—and the program truly embodies all these qualities. What stood out to me was not only the commitment of the attendings, but also the strong culture of learning and teaching among the residents themselves. This, combined with a sense of camaraderie among coresidents that feels genuinely unique, made it the ideal choice for my training.

What are your clinical interests? I have an interest in biomechanics and engineering biology's relation to disease processes and healthy lifestyles in the realm of orthopedics and beyond, and will do my Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Colorado.

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, camping, hockey, reading, and video games.

Alex Balboa, MD

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Medical school: University of Toledo College of Medicine

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I chose Corewell Health because of the great residents and faculty I met from the program on interview day. Everyone I talked to felt very genuine in their interest to learn about me, to share about their program, and to share about the relationships they'd formed within the program. There is a great sense of community that I want to be a part of. I also knew that by choosing Corewell Health, I'd be entering a program through which I would gain the skills and training to be competent and confident in the next stages of my career. I also loved the fact that I would gain great exposure to a wide breadth and depth of subspecialties and practice environments.

What are your clinical interests? I will be completing a Trauma fellowship at the University of Tennessee/Erlanger Health Systems in Chattanooga.

Hobbies: My fiancé and I enjoy food and traveling. If we're not in the kitchen trying out new recipes, you can find us trying new restaurants and breweries. We also love to be outdoors and can't wait to explore West Michigan through hiking and road cycling. I also enjoy rock climbing, playing volleyball, and golfing.

Tyler Bilden, MD

Hometown: Northwood, ND

Medical school: University of North Dakota

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? Resident-centric culture, robust faculty-resident relationships, excellent history of producing highly skilled orthopedic surgeons.

What are your clinical interests? Everything shoulder/elbow, and will complete my fellowship at Stanford University.

Hobbies: Golf, softball, spending time with my twins.

Jessica Flakne

Hometown: Maple Plain, MN

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities

Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was very impressed with Corewell Health after my virtual interview. I was drawn by the obvious camaraderie among the residents and skilled faculty that would prioritize my education. I wanted to stay in the Midwest for my training, and this program offered both excellent clinical and operative experience.

What are your clinical interests? I’ve enjoyed exploring all subspecialties in orthopedics and am looking forward to completing a Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Chicago.

Hobbies: My hobbies include baking, gardening, and other outdoor activities. I also enjoy rowing and look forward to finding a local boat club.

Tyler Madden

Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Why did you choose Corwell Health for your residency/fellowship? The orthopedic surgery residency at Corewell Health is exceptionally well-rounded. The surgical training is comprehensive and high-volume, resident education is a clear priority, and there is a genuine camaraderie among residents. The program director is an outstanding advocate for resident,s and faculty are committed to training residents to develop the surgical and critical thinking skills to both excel as a surgeon and grow as an individual.

What are your clinical interests? My clinical interests particularly include adult reconstruction and trauma. Following residency, I will be undergoing subspecialty training in adult reconstruction at William Beaumont University Hospital in Metro Detroit.

Hobbies: In my downtime, I love spending time with my wife and daughter exploring Grand Rapids and other cities. I also enjoy playing golf, lifting weights, and snowboarding. Lately, I've been getting into hunting and Ironman triathlons.

Luke Winkel

Hometown: Troy, MI

Medical school: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Why did you choose Corewell Health for your residency/fellowship? I was looking for a program that prioritizes education, offers strong mentorship, and provides robust operative experience—and the program truly embodies all these qualities. What stood out to me was not only the commitment of the attendings, but also the strong culture of learning and teaching among the residents themselves. This, combined with a sense of camaraderie among coresidents that feels genuinely unique, made it the ideal choice for my training.

What are your clinical interests? I have an interest in biomechanics and engineering biology's relation to disease processes and healthy lifestyles in the realm of orthopedics and beyond, and will do my Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Colorado.

Hobbies: I enjoy hiking, camping, hockey, reading, and video games.

Get To Know Our Residents

PGY 1

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PGY 5