Derek Gelderman, CBET

STI Class of 2004 & 2005

Degrees: Laser Electro/Optics Technology and Biomedical Equipment Technology

Field Service Technician

HSS Medical Equipment Management; Denver, CO

 

Capitalizing on U.S. News’ “30 Best Careers for 2009”

Derek Gelderman Makes Great Money, Loves Job

In the current economic upheaval, nearly everyone is searching for a ‘recession-proof’ career. While no industry can ever claim to be recession-proof, there are obviously positions that may be more stable in uncertain times. Recently, U.S. News & World Report published its take on 2009’s 30 best careers for a rapidly changing economy. Biomedical Equipment Technician, a position that requires an associate’s degree which is offered at Southeast Tech, made the cut.

Derek Gelderman, CBET, a Biomedical Equipment Technology graduate notes, “I’m very comfortable at my job and with my financial situation. There’s always going to be a need for someone to fix medical equipment. I’m definitely glad I chose this field because job security is great, it’s a steady job and I enjoy doing it.”

As a Field Service Engineer for Colorado-based company HSS Medical Equipment Management, Gelderman repairs medical equipment and services more than 400 hospitals, surgery centers and clinics in the Denver area. A typical day has him performing preventative maintenance on equipment and repairs on demand. He is rarely called out overnight.

For Gelderman, a Colton native, pursuing the biomed degree was an easy choice. “I went to Southeast for a visitation day and saw that they had the biomed program.” He notes, “I really liked that it only took me three years to get my degree. I got an early start on my career and it’s only getting better. My company paid to send me to get certified so that was a great bonus for me.”

And the future looks even better. Gelderman smiles, “I see myself staying with this company for several years. We’re very busy now and I really enjoy my job every day. It has exceeded my expectations.”