(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Since Nestor De Leon began his internship at South Texas Health System (STHS) in September, he has immersed himself in the daily work of troubleshooting and maintaining medical equipment by using the skills he learned in the Biomedical Equipment program at Texas State Technical College.
“I stay proactive as I continue to learn in this large hospital setting,” De Leon said. “I’ve troubleshooted beds, stretchers, feeding pumps, vital sign monitors, X-ray machines and IV poles. It’s been a fascinating experience.”
Monica Garcia, director of healthcare technology management at STHS, said De Leon has progressed from shadowing colleagues during equipment repairs to handling the tasks with minimal supervision.
“Nestor has shown maturity and a strong eagerness to make an impact during his internship,” she said. “(He) demonstrates scientific, technical and soft skills, and he takes initiative by researching manufacturer service documentation and schematics to anticipate challenges.”
De Leon worked as a maintenance technician for two manufacturing companies in the Rio Grande Valley, before he began researching engineering programs in the region. That led him to TSTC’s Biomedical Equipment program. He is on track to graduate with an associate’s degree in December.
The Pharr resident said his instructors have encouraged him every step of the way.
“They know I work full time outside of school and have been flexible so I can meet the goals expected of me,” he said.
David Sanchez is one of De Leon’s instructors who has seen him grow in the field.
“Nestor’s internship at STHS strengthened his diagnostic and analytical skills while exposing him to the importance of regulatory compliance and documentation,” he said. “Working with clinical engineers and health care staff helped him improve his communication, teamwork and time-management skills.”
De Leon said he is motivated by one goal.
“After I graduate, I plan to take the entry-level Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology (CABT) exam for biomedical professionals,” he said.
TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Biomedical Equipment at its Harlingen and Waco campuses, as well as an Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Imaging Systems Technology Specialization at the Waco campus.
Registration for the spring semester is underway. For more information, go to tstc.edu.