By K. Richard Douglas
Known in the healthcare technology management community as “The Biomed Girl,” Mayra Becerra, CBET, is a biomed supervisor with a health system in South Florida
Becerra made her career choice at an early age and never looked back.
“My interest in the HTM/biomed profession started back in 10th grade when I attended a career fair. That’s where I came across biomedical engineering for the first time ever, and I was hooked. The mix of engineering and medicine immediately caught my attention and sparked my curiosity,” Becerra says.
She says that after finishing her English as a second language program, she started looking into engineering programs at her college.
“That’s when I found an Associate of Science in Engineering Technology with a focus in Biomedical Engineering. The curriculum really stood out to me because it had a lot of electronic classes; exactly what I wanted. It confirmed that I was heading in the right direction,” Becerra says.
The program provided Becerra with a solid foundation in electronics, engineering principles, and medical technology. She says that while pursuing the degree, she gained practical knowledge that prepared her for the field.
“To enhance my learning and gain hands-on experience, I volunteered at the hospital where I currently work. This opportunity allowed me to apply what I was learning in a real-world healthcare setting, work alongside professionals, and understand how biomedical engineering impacts patient care. This combination of formal education and volunteer experience helped me significantly for my career in the HTM/biomed profession,” Becerra says.
She is particularly happy with the biomed field because it combines her love for engineering with her mom’s dream that she go into medicine.
“It’s the perfect balance – it makes me happy and made my mom happy too,” Becerra adds.
She says that choosing HTM was one of the best decisions she’s ever made. She has climbed the career ladder from equipment repair technician to biomed I, biomed II, biomed III and biomed supervisor.
STEM Influencer and Biomed Supervisor
Challenges help a person grow and provide for experiences that aid in a professional’s career. Becerra has had a few of these challenges as she has progressed in her career.
“Throughout my career, I’ve encountered several challenges that have greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth. One of the first challenges I faced was overcoming doubts from male coworkers about my skills, simply because I am a woman. Additionally, English being my second language and having a strong accent initially impacted my confidence. However, I was fortunate to have great leaders who supported me, helping me to overcome these barriers and truly unlock my potential,” she says.
Becerra says that aside from these personal challenges, she has faced organizational obstacles such as obtaining manufacturer training and getting approval for changes. While these are complex tasks, they are not impossible, and persistence has often been the key to success.
“I’ve had the privilege of working on several significant projects. One of the most notable was the opening of a new cancer center, where I was involved in the inventory, configuration, and testing of over 400 new pieces of medical equipment. We ensured the building was fully equipped and ready for opening,” Becerra says.
Other projects Becerra has been involved with include major upgrades of medical devices, including 2,000 Alaris infusion pumps, more than 40 central station computers and 300 vital signs monitors. She says that these projects required meticulous planning and execution.
“Currently, I’m involved in the remodeling of the mother and baby department, which includes the implementation of a new monitoring station. In these projects, I’ve contributed to various stages, from initial planning to the ‘go live’ phase,” Becerra adds.
She says that these experiences have sharpened her communication, planning and project management skills.
Recognition for these achievements came by way of her state’s biomed association.
“I was honored to receive the 2024 Biomed of the Year award from the Florida Biomedical Society, which was a significant recognition of my contributions to the industry,” Becerra says.
Off the job, Becerra enjoys working out, which is her favorite hobby.
“I enjoy staying active because it helps me maintain both physical and mental health,” she says.
“Outside of my professional life, I have also achieved success in athletic competitions, earning first and second place in duathlons and 5K races,” she says.
Becerra thinks of herself as a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) influencer, an approach that combines these areas of study that should be the focus of young people who want to have a rewarding career.
Her Youtube channel, TheBiomedGirl, along with TikTok and Instagram channels, has allowed her to promote the HTM field.
She is passionate about continuous learning and building meaningful connections with others. Whether in her professional life or personal interests, she is always eager to grow and develop. Sharing what she has learned with her biomed colleagues has been a meaningful embrace of social media.
On YouTube, find The Biomed Girl at @TheBioMedGirl
BIOMETRICS
Favorite book:
“You are a Badass”
Favorite movie:
“Deadpool”
Hidden talent:
I am a fast runner
Favorite food:
Peruvian cuisine
Favorite part of being a biomed?
I truly enjoy solving problems
Why do you read TechNation?
I read TechNation to stay involved in the field and keep up with industry updates.
