Page 100 - 50th Alumni Success Stories Book

Sheila Gonzalez Kirkpatrick In 2016, I moved to Colorado Springs and even though
I had a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Microbiology, it
Medical Laboratory Technician Program was a challenge to find a job in my field. I decided to
Colorado Springs Campus go back to school and earn a certification as a Medical
Laboratory Technician (MLT). I started an MLT program
Graduate 2019 at another educational institution, but in June of 2017
that institution transferred the program to Pima Medical
Institute. I think it was the best thing that could have
happened to me and my peers, because Pima Medical
took us in and helped us finish what we started.

During my MLT externship, I was hired as a Quality
Specialist for a microbiology laboratory. I wanted to
keep progressing in my career, so I obtained a position
at Penrose-St. Francis Medical Center as a Medical
Laboratory Technician that same year.

Pima Medical is an outstanding

educational institution and prepares

students for success.

I have always wanted to teach, so during the COVID-19
pandemic, I found myself considering options to earn
experience and look for teaching opportunities in my
field of expertise. One day, I scrolled through Pima
Medical Institute’s Job Announcement and a MLT
Instructor position was available, so I applied. I am
currently teaching full time in Pima Medical Institute’s MLT
Program and I am a part-time employee as a MLT with
Penrose-St. Francis Medical Center in Colorado Springs.
Pima Medical Institute prepared me for my profession. I
am thankful to God, my family and Pima Medical for their
support. Pima Medical is an outstanding educational
institution and prepares students for success. I am
grateful to be part of this great team of professionals and
educators!

98 99