AAMI is accepting applications for the next round of its mentorship program, which seeks to help professionals who are new to the healthcare technology field develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed and grow in their careers.

“Everyone needs someone to keep them motivated and accountable,” says Chris Brizendine, a design drafter for Key Technology, Inc. in Walla Walla, Wash. “It’s essential to have someone you can look up to to help you learn and do more with your life.” Brizendine participated in the mentorship program while studying industrial design at Walla Walla University.

The AAMI Mentorship Program pairs those looking for guidance (protégés) with those who have expertise on a variety of healthcare technology topics (mentors). Mentors and protégés usually meet for about one to two hours a month either in person, on the phone, or via email to discuss issues or concerns unique to healthcare technology professionals and focus on long-term career planning.

“These young kids need someone to provide them with an honest and objective perspective on the world, on their current situation within the world, and on the strategies to carve out their future role in the world,” said former mentor Nolan Baird, associate director of combination product development at AbbVie.

Mentorship pairs will receive an updated version of AAMI’s Mentorship Toolkit to help guide the relationship. Mentors and protégés also will have access to a special group on AAMI’s online networking site, AAMI Connect, to provide tips, share successes, and pose questions to the larger group.

Applications are being accepted through AAMI Connect until May 1.

Mentor Qualifications

  • At least five years of experience in the healthcare technology field
  • Available to meet for one hour per month (at a minimum) via email, phone, Skype, or in person
  • AAMI member
  • Interested in providing guidance to other healthcare technology professionals

Protégé Qualifications

  • Employed or enrolled in an academic program in the healthcare technology field
  • Available to meet for one hour per month (at a minimum) via email, phone, Skype, or in person
  • AAMI member
  • Eager to get career advice from a seasoned healthcare technology professional

For more information, contact Allison Rafti, AAMI’s director membership marketing, at [email protected].