Ep. 94 - EMT/Division Simulation Specialist - HCA Healthcare - Luke Routzon

Welcome back to the Joust About Careers podcast! This is the place to learn about careers from the people who are actually doing the work every day. I’m your host, Brian Bratt, and this week’s guest is 2010 Van Buren graduate Luke Routzon, a state and nationally-licensed EMT who is now a Division Simulation Specialist with HCA Healthcare. In this episode, Luke shares how a typical day looks for him, how becoming an EMT led him to his current position, the importance of having a support system as an EMT, and much more. Whether you are interested in a career as an EMT or in healthcare or are still exploring your options, I hope that what Luke shares today will help all of you make better career decisions and have fulfilling career journeys. Enjoy the show!1:10 - A typical day for Luke as a division simulation specialist2:50 - The role of facilitator, but experience is key.3:42 - Mannequins for students learning healthcare techniques are not cheap but are amazingly advanced.7:41 - Luke had no idea his career existed when he was in high school.8:11 - Luke started in EMS in 2015, has lived in a firehouse, has worked in disaster relief, and has used his many experiences to end up where he is today.9:40 - LinkedIn led Luke to his current position.10:39 - There are various tiers within the EMS field (EMT, advanced EMT, paramedic), and they require varied levels of education.12:58 - A state license gives the EMTs and paramedics the opportunity to practice.14:32 - Luke has earned over 60 certifications.15:45 - Certifications can be done in spare time and open many career doors.16:55 - Emergency Management Institute - provide opportunities for advancement.17:39 - The good and bad of being an EMT.18:53 - Having a support system in place is important for the mental health of people working in this industry.21:05 - Catching his first baby was Luke’s most fulfilling career experience.22:58 - Focusing in school is essential.Questions?Connect with Brian on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/) or e-mail ([email protected]).Connect with Luke on LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/lukeroutzon/) or by e-mail ([email protected]).