Shortly after graduating from high school I found myself attending a community college with the intent of majoring in psychology. One day my psychology teacher shared a list of "1000 Jobs Built to Last" and RAD Tech caught my attention, as I'd always had an interest in the medical field. When I mentioned this to my teacher, he told me about Pima Medical Institute's Radiography (RAD) program, gave me a brochure and I ended up enrolling. I was one of the youngest students in the program, but the diversity of age groups was really helpful for me. The program is very intense and fast paced so I took advantage of every tutoring opportunity. I had three amazing instructors who prepared me, allowing me to score a 98 on my boards, and taught me invaluable life skills.
I got some great experience at my first job at a radiology clinic, but I really missed the hospital setting so after a few years I obtained a position at Banner/Good Samaritan. Within the first year I was able to work into leadership and I have benefitted from Banner's leadership development programs over the last 21 years. I also obtained both my bachelor's and master's degree in business management. I've held roles of supervisor, senior manager, director, associate administrator. Currently, I am the Chief Operating Officer at both Banner University Medical Center Tucson and South Campuses. Having been a clinician has been really helpful for me in understanding the needs of both our patients and employees.
I recommend becoming a Rad Tech. You make good money and I have found it to be stable, even in uncertain economies. Plus, the sky is the limit! Not only do you have many specialty options (CT, Mammography, Ultrasound, MRI, Interventional Radiology), you get to integrate with the whole hospital and become a core part of what makes a hospital run. This allows for an easy step into leadership. I never entered this career saying I wanted to be the COO, I just wanted to make the world a better place for people.
Choosing to attend the RAD program at Pima Medical Institute was one of the best decisions I've made.
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I completed my bachelor's degree in child development and worked at child care centers for a number of years, but something inside me always longed to be in the medical field. My dad was a physical therapist assistant and later became an RN, so I had lots of exposure to the medical field. But, it's very difficult to switch careers. After a coworker told me about Pima Medical Institute, I began taking steps to enroll in the Medical Assistant (MA) program. I was still working full-time so the hybrid MA program, which offered online learning and the opportunity to attend classes two nights a week, was exactly what I needed. I loved my experience as a student and appreciated my instructors. It was tough attending classes and working full-time, but I was diligent with my studies and disciplined myself to study on weekends. When it came time for my clinicals, I quit my child care job and began applying all I had learned in my classes at a family medicine clinic. The people I worked with really helped me and I was able to apply the skills I had learned, gain experience and also increase my confidence. It was probably my favorite part of my education.
Finding a job ended up being a lot easier than I had anticipated. I am currently working as an MA at Parker Pediatrics and Adolescence. I love my job! I am able to marry all my experience working with children and my new career in the medical field. I really enjoy the people I work with and it's providing me a ton of opportunities for further growth and learning. I'm not finished with education, so I am in the process of getting my bachelor of science in nursing. Pima Medical gave me my start in the medical field. Being able to work full time while obtaining my MA certificate was so worth it and provided a jumping off point for me into the medical field.
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After high school, I moved to L.A. to pursue a music career and worked construction when I was not touring. In 2001, I returned to Tucson to care for my ill father, once again supporting myself doing construction.
At the age of 46, I sustained bilateral ankle fractures in a workplace accident, which necessitated major surgery and extensive occupational therapy and physical therapy rehab. My OT, COTA and PT were invaluable to my recovery, helping me to manage my life and teaching me to walk again. These therapists inspired me to find a career where I could help others, so I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Occupational Therapy Assistant program. Going back to school at age 47 was difficult, but the instructors were very helpful and guided me through the program. The week after graduation, I started my new job at an upper-extremity and pediatric neuro-rehab clinic, where I worked for the next five years. When that clinic closed, I reconnected with PMI's OTA program director to discuss prospective job leads. I learned that PMI was looking for an OTA instructor, so I applied and was recently hired.
The knowledge that students gain from PMI's program is immense, and I am really excited to teach others what I have learned. I think the struggles I had as a student will help me know how to encourage my students. I feel like I have come full circle at PMI.
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Coming to Pima Medical Institute made me feel like I was part of a community. If you let yourself get immersed in the culture you find that you have the support of so many people.
I had completed a bachelor's degree in Leadership Studies, but realized shortly after that what I really wanted was a career in physical therapy. I put that dream on hold and we began having a family. My husband was active duty Coast Guard so we moved often and it didn't make sense for me to start a new career until we settled. After my second child was born, I began researching programs in the area. I was thrilled to find Pima Medical Institute's Physical Therapist Assistant program. It was only 18 months long and I enrolled.
I stayed after class every day for several hours just to study and review assignments. My classmates and I often studied together and we found that one of the best ways to learn was to teach each other. My instructors were super knowledgeable, really experienced, and very available. When it came time for clinicals, every site I stepped into was blown away by how much I knew.
My first long term clinical was at Flex Physical Therapy where they focus on orthopedic and pelvic floor health. It was a great fit for me, they offered me a job upon graduation, and I love it!
PMI changed my life in a really big way!
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These 3 sisters are from a family of 8 children. Jennifer started the Pima Medical Institute tradition. After completing a bachelor's degree and still not being able to determine a career path, a friend recommended she look into Pima Medical Institute. Jennifer chose the Radiography program because she'd had a number of injuries and experienced x-rays in the past. Julianne followed her to Pima Medical. After considering another program, she also decided on Radiography and the girls attended the program together. It made for some competition between the two sisters, but also gave them a built in study partner. Both Jennifer and Julianne say they had great instructors, made great friends, and enjoyed working together toward a common goal. Julianne says she recommends Pima Medical to everyone!
Jessica watched her sisters finish a quick program and get steady jobs. She saw not only their successful careers, but their financial reward, and decided she wanted that for herself. So she enrolled in the Radiography program at Pima Medical. She found out she was expecting while in the program, gave birth and was back in school a week later. She says her daughter Marley is her main motivator and she will be graduating in 2020.
The girls love the variety of opportunities the field of radiography offers. Jennifer currently works the night shift at a hospital as an x-ray technologist and is also the OR supervisor. She loves the fast paced variety and trauma aspect. Julianne obtained a position as an x-ray technologist at another hospital and is starting school for MRI. Jessica has been enjoying her clinical experience and looks forward to a job in the field after graduation. All three girls love the radiography field and feel so grateful for their education at Pima Medical Institute.
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I have found a career that I love as a Medical Lab Technician!
I'd attempted to find my place in the medical field once before, attending a Dental Assistant program, but it just wasn't for me. I just didn't enjoy interacting with patients. After being a stay-at-home mom for about 10 years, I returned to Pima Medical Institute, learned they had started a Medical Lab Technician (MLT) program and knew this was the program and the career for me.
I chose Pima Medical because I knew how hands-on they were. Unfortunately, shortly after starting the program, the pandemic hit resulting in us having to go to online learning. But, our instructors worked really hard to get us into the lab in small groups to practice during COVID. During my program I found out I had a brain tumor requiring surgery. The instructors were very helpful and supportive during my treatment and I was able to continue my program.
I am a veteran so I did my clinicals at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne, WY. It was challenging staying in Cheyenne during the week and driving back for week-ends, but I did it! I landed an MLT job at Centura Health's Penrose Hospital shortly after graduation and I love it! There is no typical day; every day is different and I learn something new almost every day. I plan to do this job until I can't do it anymore. I am preparing to start my bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science. This will set me up to get my MLS certification, providing a pay increase and an opportunity for a lead position. I would definitely recommend Pima Medical's MLT program. If you like solving puzzles, this is a great career for you!
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My journey with Pima Medical Institute has been nothing short of transformative. After high school I started classes at the community college, but I just didn't like it. I didn't know what to do with my life and was spending my days playing video games. Encouraged by my parents, I began searching for a phlebotomy program, an interest of mine, and that's when I found Pima Medical. The pivotal moment came during a tour with my advisor, where we explored different programs and the Pharmacy Technician program grabbed my attention. I was still nervous and unsure, but I returned a year later feeling ready and I enrolled. Pima Medical's small, close-knit community made the first few weeks feel different from any other school experience.
The journey through the program had its challenges, especially for someone like me who isn't fond of reading. However, the camaraderie among classmates, my new friendships and the guidance from Mr. Silva, our instructor, made it an enriching experience. The real test came during my externship, and despite feeling terrified, I excelled. Pima Medical not only equipped me with technical skills but also nurtured my interviewing abilities and landing a job at UMC Surgical Hospital was a dream come true. The fast-paced environment, combined with the hands-on experience I'd gotten in school, made the transition seamless. Even when I'm off for a few days, I find myself eager to get back to work.
At just 20 years old, I'm happy in my new career and am dreaming about future possibilities in the medical field. From transforming my unhealthy lifestyle to instilling a newfound passion for my work, Pima Medical has been the guiding force that has not just shaped my career but my entire life.
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As a proud Pima Medical Institute BSRT graduate, my journey from an associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy (RT), to a bachelor's degree, to achieving my dream job as a Critical Care Transport Respiratory Therapist at Children's Mercy has been nothing short of remarkable. While in school for my associate's at Concorde College, they highly encouraged us to continue our education and recommended Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT). I knew a bachelor's would increase my salary and would also be helpful for future supervisory or management positions. The flexibility of online classes made it manageable for me to work full-time at Salem Health, a level II trauma center with a level III NICU, while pursuing my degree.
My dream of working in medical transport began at age 17, when I was a volunteer patient for the local fire department and experienced being flighted out of our neighborhood. After years of experience as an RT, I landed my dream job. As a Critical Care Transport RT, I participate in various types of transports, from helicopters and fixed wing, to jets and ground transportation, proving support to hospitals nationwide. Children's Mercy in Kansas City is one of the busiest transport teams, covering a wide range of patients including neonates, pediatrics, maternal and fetal cases. Working with limited resources challenges me to think on my feet and be creative with patient care. The transport team, comprised of brilliant minds, requires continuous education, certifications, and simulations to improve patient care. During my downtime, I enjoy visiting former patients and their families and witnessing their progress.
I love to do PR at community events where I hope to inspire young girls to pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare. I'm appreciative for the role Pima Medical played in shaping my success and making my dream job a reality.
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After completing high school, I was looking for a temporary source of income that would pay enough to allow me to put myself through college. I had several family members who had attended various programs at Pima Medical Institute, so decided to enroll in their nine-month Pharmacy Technician program, figuring it might be a quick way to make more than the average college student.
The class schedules were ideal, allowing me to work while going to school. It was a strenuous curriculum but my instructor, a Doctor of Pharmacy with many years of experience, ensured his students became successful Pharmacy Technicians. He knew exactly what made a great technician and he prepared us well to become nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technicians.
I have spent the past 17 years as a Pharmacy Technician working in inpatient pharmacy performing sterile and chemotherapy compounding. I moved away from Arizona about seven years ago and I was hired at the VA Medical Center, where I was quickly promoted to Lead IV Trainer.
Recently, the Mayo Clinic in Mankato reached out to me and offered me a job as their Technician Supervisor with a focus in Sterile Compounding. The temporary job I thought would support further education became my career. I am very proud of my work as a Pharmacy Technician and I'm thankful for my Pima Medical instructor. As a result of being trained by him, I feel like my career has been really distinguished and for that I will always be grateful.
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After twelve-plus years as a personal trainer, I found myself needing a job with benefits like a 401K and insurance, so I transitioned to a desk job. However, I was miserable and knew I needed a career that left me feeling fulfilled. I reevaluated my passions and realized I still loved working with bodies and physical health. A co-worker who had attended Pima Medical Institute for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program encouraged me to consider it. After researching and learning about the program, I decided to go back to school. Despite my experience, I wasn't initially accepted into the PTA program. Crushed but determined, I quit my desk job and worked as a rehab tech at an assisted living facility for a year. When I reapplied, I was accepted and I set a goal to graduate with honors.
At 39, I was older than most of my classmates, but I felt more prepared for the professional aspects. My instructors were great clinicians and I was able to learn and draw on their experiences. My clinicals were challenging, especially when COVID hit, causing disruptions. Despite the added stress, our instructors ensured we gained the necessary practical experience. After graduation, I worked at a skilled nursing facility, which I enjoyed, but quickly experienced burnout. I accepted a Physical Therapist Assistant position at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy, where I have been thriving. In fact, a year ago I was promoted to Clinic Director. I love my job, my patients and the challenges of managing the clinic.
As a clinical instructor, I work with Pima Medical students, drawing on my experiences to engage them in hands-on learning. I'm proud to have graduated with honors and have even inspired a former client of mine to enroll in Pima Medical's Respiratory Therapy program. Now, both of us are medical professionals making a difference in people's lives. It's incredibly fulfilling!
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My story is a bit unique in the way I came to Pima Medical Institute. I was in the Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Brightwood College in 2018 when it suddenly closed its doors. Pima Medical was willing to take those displaced students, so without other options I decided to give it a go. Since Pima Medical didn't have a CNA program, I chose their Medical Assistant (MA) program.
My experience at Pima Medical was exceptional! I had great instructors and I felt like I got a fantastic education. One specific thing I really appreciated about the curriculum was that we were able to learn all different aspects of the roles of our profession. For example, although I've never worked as a front office MA, I was able to learn those roles and understand their responsibilities as well.
Two days after finishing my program, I was on a plane moving to Colorado. I began applying for jobs as soon as I got settled and had no trouble finding a position. I was hired as an MA at Pueblo Community Health Center where I will soon be celebrating five years. Currently, I am also completing prerequisites so I can go back to school to achieve my dream of becoming an RN.
Pima Medical Institute has great programs and amazing instructors! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting a career in the medical field. If their location here in Colorado offered an RN program, I would already be signed up. I appreciate everything all of my instructors did for me and I wouldn't be where I am without them.
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Back in 2005, I was working in Public Relations at National Jewish Health, the nation's #1 respiratory hospital, when I first discovered the field of Respiratory Therapy (RT). Fascinated by the work, I asked the Director of Respiratory who offered the best RT program. Without hesitation, he said, "Pima Medical Institute." My decision was made.
My time in the Respiratory Therapy program at Pima Medical was incredible. The hands-on training during clinical rotations left me feeling fully prepared to enter the field. In fact, I had two job offers before I even graduated. Pima Medical's commitment to student success is unmatched-they're truly invested in 100% job placement, and it shows. Over the years, I've precepted students from many schools, and Pima Medical graduates consistently stand out as being the most prepared.
Today, I work at Craig Hospital near Denver, Colorado, a leading acute rehabilitation center specializing in traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. I've built a new division within the department and now serve as the Respiratory Patient Education & Discharge Coordinator. My role involves training patients and their families to manage ventilators and tracheostomies at home, coordinating equipment and supplies, and often flying with patients across the country to ensure a smooth transition home.
In 2012, I was honored as Colorado Respiratory Therapist of the Year and in 2025, I received the National PHIL Award for Patient Advocacy.
I owe much of my success to Pima Medical Institute's exceptional program. To this day, I recommend it to anyone interested in Respiratory Care-it truly is the best!
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