By Steven Lutz
Biomedical technology is at the heart of healthcare, where every diagnostic unit, monitor, or life-saving device depends on precision and reliability. Behind the smooth operation of life-saving technologies are skilled biomedical equipment technicians, the unsung heroes making medical equipment function when it’s needed most. As demand for healthcare technology management (HTM) continues to grow, the need for trained professionals is more pressing than ever.
ReNew Biomedical has been a leading force in providing education, certification and apprenticeship programs for aspiring biomeds. With the launch of the ReNew Biomedical Training Academy, ReNew has opened new pathways to enter and thrive in the HTM field.
SAVING THE LIVES OF LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT
ReNew Biomedical began its mission to service and maintain life-saving medical equipment in 2014. What started as one small workbench has evolved into a service depot, full-time traveling techs, multiple remote service depots and a nationwide leader in healthcare technology management. Along the way, they focused not only on service and repair operations but also on creating opportunities and career pipelines for the next generation of technicians.
From the ReNew Biomedical Apprenticeship Program to in-person and online courses, ReNew is training and educating students, newcomers to the field and seasoned technicians alike.
YOUR PATH INTO BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
Whether you’re just starting a career or looking to advance your skills, there are several pathways you can take to enter the biomedical technology field. We’ll break down the most common places to start your journey.
1. In-Person Training Academy
For those who thrive in a hands-on learning environment, in-person courses are a fantastic option. In-person classes provide students with direct access to state-of-the-art biomedical equipment benches and instruction from experienced, certified professionals. Students are immersed in real-world scenarios and learn by doing.
In 2021, ReNew launched its training academy, providing education through in-person classes and hands-on experience for technicians looking to complete their CABT and CBET certifications. Since then, ReNew has graduated 10 classes of biomedical students, totaling 51 CABT certifications and 12 CBET certifications.
Courses cover essential topics in healthcare technology management, including:
• Biomedical equipment functions
• Clinical application of devices in healthcare settings
• Preventative maintenance
• Safety standards
• Diagnostics and troubleshooting
2. Online Course: Fundamentals of HTM
For those who need more flexibility, there are online learning resources, such as ReNew’s Fundamentals of HTM course. Self-paced digital courses allow students to learn the basics of healthcare technology management from the comfort of their own home. The online format covers foundational knowledge that will prepare you for certification exams like the Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology (CABT).
The Fundamentals of HTM course includes:
• Occupational safety
• Patient safety
• Anatomy and physiology
• Electrical systems and IT
• Medical equipment fundamentals
• Problem solving/troubleshooting
Best for: Individuals balancing work, school, or other commitments who want to pursue certification without attending a traditional classroom setting.
3. Apprenticeship Program
For those who learn best by doing, partnered apprenticeship programs offer the most immersive pathway into the HTM field. In 2021, ReNew launched its apprenticeship program, combining in-person classes, mentorship and hands-on experience to aspiring biomedical technicians.
Apprentices partner with experienced technicians, and are trained on real-world equipment, learning to troubleshoot, repair and maintain biomedical devices in a supervised setting.
Apprenticeship programs include:
• Paid, on-the-job training
• Industry-recognized certifications
• Mentorship from seasoned professionals
ReNew’s Apprenticeship Program has received national recognition for producing industry firsts like Josh Weatherford, the first AAMI/Federal Department of Labor-registered biomedical apprentice to receive a CABT and CBET, and JL Morgan, the first graduate of the Tennessee Biomedical Technician Apprenticeship Program. Apprenticeships create pathways for long-term careers in the biomedical field, setting technicians up for success as certified professionals.
THE FUTURE OF BIOMEDICAL TECHNICIAN CAREERS
The demand for certified biomedical technicians continues to rise, with more hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations relying on skilled professionals to keep their medical equipment ready and functioning at all times.
Whether you’re looking to get started in the field, train your team on new devices, or advance your career, there have never been more opportunities to grow in and advance in the HTM field.
