The Road to Becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician

When Sam Wagner graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2020 with a bachelor’s in social work, he entered the workforce while the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing. Many employers were in a hiring freeze. 

One industry where there was no shortage of work was healthcare, where Sam soon found himself drawn. 

“I ultimately chose Munson Healthcare because of the great care I experienced as a patient,” Sam says. 

An Unexpected Jumpstart

Sam joined Munson Healthcare in August 2020, becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician I in less than a year. 

The career ladder program offered by Munson Healthcare (MHC) provided on-the-job training as he became certified.

“I applied knowing that this position isn’t what I went to school for – but I knew this role would bring me more than just a paycheck,” Sam says. “It was a phenomenal opportunity to advance my professional career, offering me room to grow, learn new skills, and build my experience working with patients.”

As a phlebotomist, Sam performs blood draws to screen for anything from blood sugar and cholesterol to liver function and disease. Sam’s integral role has taught him invaluable skills that he’ll use for the rest of his life. 
“I’ve learned everything from time management to patient care, and everything in between,” he says.

New Doors Open Quickly

Once he became nationally certified, Sam was quickly promoted to a lead role. He now performs blood draws in a clinic in Elk Rapids, a small community north of Traverse City.

Getting to know the people in this small community has been an unexpected highlight of his career at MHC.  He especially loves greeting patients each morning when the clinic doors open. He knows many of them by name. 

“I get to help people every day,” Sam says. “I know I did something good for the community. It’s a great feeling.”

And, the view doesn’t hurt either. With Torch Lake and the Grand Traverse Bay nearby, Elk Rapids is a beautiful rural community to spend the days helping others.

Growing in All Directions

For Sam, working at MHC is an incredible milestone on his resume. He attributes his job satisfaction to supportive management, a professional work environment, and quality communication and teamwork. The training and experience he’s received serve as a solid foundation to take his career in any number of directions. 

“There is plenty of opportunity here. You can work in the food industry, in business or finance, in the lab or any portion of the health field,” Sam says. “You can work full-time or part-time, with flexible hours. Need nights? Need early mornings? You can get it.” 

Getting started in a career as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician

Are you interested in learning more about working for Munson Healthcare? Check out our job openings.