HTM Apprentices: A Year Later and Making a Difference

It’s been one year since Crothall Healthcare Technology Solutions launched its BMET Apprenticeship Program and strengthened its partnership with The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation® (AAMI). Recognizing the value and potential an apprenticeship program brings, HTS Program Director Codi Nelson viewed it as an opportunity to develop the next generation of healthcare technology management professionals. It also enhances the diversity of our talent pool while ensuring that our company culture, protocols, and processes are ingrained in our team right from the outset.

The success of Crothall’s inaugural group of apprentices has shown that healthcare technology management (HTM) apprenticeships can be a valuable way to train and develop new talent. The program offers a number of benefits, including:

• The opportunity to learn new skills on the job
• The chance to earn a salary while you learn
• The support of a mentor
• The opportunity to network with other professionals in the field

Crothall’s first five apprentices, Gregory B, Samantha H, Jonathan G, Neil P, and Jose Luis R, have all made significant progress in their careers. Let’s catch up with this next generation of HTM professionals one year later:

1. What were you doing before joining Crothall’s apprenticeship program with AAMI?

Gregory B.

Before joining the apprenticeship program, I had been employed at a small print shop. I learned about customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving. I’m grateful for the experience and know it will help me in my Crothall career.

Samantha H.

I had been employed in two nursing positions before starting the apprentice program with Crothall.

Jonathan G.

Before my apprenticeship began, I was a broker/dispatcher for a trucking firm.

Neil P.

Before joining Crothall’s apprenticeship program, I was a sales associate. The position helped sharpen my communication and customer service skills, which have been invaluable during my apprenticeship.

Jose R.

I held a position as a maintenance electrician at the Google data center in Reno, NV, through a third party while in the Naval Reserves, where I am currently a CE2 (Construction Electrician 2nd class).

2. What advice would you give someone wanting to be an apprentice?

Gregory B.

If you are thinking about pursuing a career as a Biomed technician, this is the best path due to the extensive work experience it provides.

Samantha H.

Make sure you take the necessary steps to manage your time to accomplish your goals effectively.

Jonathan G.

Keep practicing and learning, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.

Neil P.

Although it may be difficult initially, the rewards are worth the effort. You will build connections and gain guidance from knowledgeable and experienced professionals.

Jose R.

My advice to someone looking to become an apprentice would be to stay organized, demonstrate a high level of responsibility, and be open to learning. Having well-developed time management skills is a must. And it’s worth remembering that schoolwork will be just one part of the workload.

3. Tell us something that might surprise us about you.

Gregory B.

I hold stock in AMC. The pandemic took it for a wild ride.

Samantha H.

I am a self-taught artist. I taught myself to draw and paint.

Jonathan G.

I was formerly a co-host of a radio talk show.

Neil P.

I love to fly fish. It gives me a sense of accomplishment when I finally hook that prize fish.

Jose R.

Something that might surprise you is that I am a single dad with the most amazing two-year-old daughter, have a knack for languages with fluency in English and Spanish, and am working on proficiency in Mandarin. I am active in the US Navy Reserves. I am also a fan of the Green Bay Packers and LA Lakers.

4. How do you pass the time when you have 30 minutes of free time?

Gregory B.

At home, I usually take advantage of my free time to spend with my dog, Savage Eugene, a Chiweenie/Mut. To ensure I stay on top of my studies, I use my breaks at work to finish any schoolwork.

Samantha H.

During my downtime, I proactively “round” the hospital for missing or unable to locate equipment.

Jonathan G.

When I have some free time, I take the opportunity to check my emails, finish any pending tasks, and organize my workspace.

Neil P.

In my free time, I like to dive into a good book, or if I’m feeling particularly tired or overwhelmed, I’ll give myself a quick power nap.

Jose R.

I will either go to the gym/sauna, read books or listen to an audiobook/podcast during my free time.

5. What have been your biggest accomplishments on our team?

Gregory B.

One of my proudest achievements has been learning the TeamCHAMPS CMMS platform. I have become well-versed in the user interface, as well as the many features and functions of the system.

Samantha H.

My proudest achievement has been collaborating with our operating room personnel on sterilizers, washers, and anesthesia machines.

Jonathan G.

My greatest accomplishment is my tenacity to stay on top of my duties while striving to learn more each day.

Neil P.

I am striving to become proficient in using our TeamCHAMPS CMMS efficiently. And I am determined to build on my technical skills and learn new ones every day.

Jose R.

I have earned the trust of my team members by successfully completing repair tasks on my own. This has been one of my most rewarding accomplishments. I have also worked actively with vendors to get equipment returned from servicing.

6. What resources have you taken advantage of while on our team?

Gregory B.

I leverage my team’s talents by continuously asking questions and striving to build on my industry knowledge.

Samantha H.

I have sharpened my skills for troubleshooting and solving technical issues with equipment through extensive hands-on experience. I can successfully disassemble, assemble, and change out parts to bring equipment back to working condition. When a situation calls for it, or I have questions, I seek advice and help from my teammates.

Jonathan G.

I have capitalized on my colleagues’ expertise by asking them for advice on tackling different tasks and improving my technical and soft skills.

Neil P.

Working with AAMI, my amazing colleagues, and cutting-edge equipment has been a fabulous learning experience. I am so grateful for the knowledge and skills I have gained during my apprenticeship.

Jose R.

I have taken full advantage of my team’s experience and expertise by asking questions about the industry and gaining valuable insight from each of my co-workers.

7. How have you grown professionally while on our team?

Gregory B.

Through my professional growth, I have gained valuable work experience from the seasoned technicians on my team. Learning from others is a great way to develop problem-solving skills. Watching how they each approach problems differently has helped me to become a creative problem solver.

Samantha H.

I have developed proficiency in actively listening to staff concerns, responding appropriately, and building trust.

Jonathan G.
To further my professional growth, I attend training to gain new skills, increase the scope of my responsibilities, and incorporate feedback and constructive criticism into my development. It’s important to be open to new ideas and ways of doing things.

Neil P.

I’ve learned a broad range of essential habits from the seasoned BMETS on my team, including being highly organized and keeping meticulous maintenance records.

Jose R.

My customer service skills have significantly improved through my experience as an apprentice.

Coordinating with vendors to get replacement parts for warrantied equipment can be challenging, but it is also a great opportunity to learn how to communicate effectively. By communicating clearly and concisely with the vendors, I can ensure that the parts are ordered and delivered on time.

Communicating with the clinical team about the status of the equipment is also an essential part of the customer service process. By keeping the clinical team informed about the progress of the repairs, I can help to minimize any disruptions to their work.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the demand for HTM professionals is only going to grow. HTM apprenticeships are a great way to prepare for a career in this growing field. To learn more about healthcare technology apprenticeships, please click here.