Today's blog highlights Phillip Villegas, an HTM professional with an impressive 11-year career. This blog shares his experiences, commends his accomplishments, and reveals the key lessons that have shaped his professional journey. Enjoy the extraordinary journey of Phillip Villegas.
The Beginning of an Incredible Journey
Phillip Villegas joined the Navy in 2013, born and raised in Orlando, Florida. His journey began unexpectedly on his 20th birthday, which he spent at a concert, followed by a night at IHOP. The next morning, his recruiter called, setting him on a path to Great Lakes for training. His dedication quickly earned him a spot in the Navy Presidential Honor Guard, where he performed ceremonial duties for President Obama. This period was a dream come true, but Phillip’s passion found a new direction when he discovered the world of biomedical equipment technology through conversations with his uncle, a veteran in the field since 1982.
In 2015, Phillip attended hospital corps school at Fort Sam Houston, followed by dental tech school. His career took him back to Washington, D.C., where he served as a dental assistant for Presidents Obama and Trump, as well as the top officials in Navy dentistry. His time at Walter Reed Medical Center allowed him to learn from esteemed professionals like Ray Usan and Chief BMET Payne. By 2018, Philip was fully immersed in biomedicine, feeling like he hadn’t worked a day in his life because his job had become his passion.
Rising Through the Ranks
Phillip’s assignments took him to Guam, where he served as a biomed tech, managing medical equipment for Navy SEALs, EOD teams, and ships in the Indo-Pacific region. His leadership and expertise continued to grow, eventually leading him to his current role at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton in California. Here, Philip and his team manage medical equipment across multiple clinics, ensuring top-notch care for service members and their families.
One of the biggest challenges Phillip faced in his career was educating users about maintaining their equipment. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication, likening it to a partnership. By ensuring departments understood their role in equipment maintenance, Philip streamlined processes, reduced downtime, and enhanced the efficiency of his team’s work.
Passion, Motivation, and Mentorship
Phillip finds motivation through quality time with his wife, a fellow Navy corpsman. They enjoy date nights, and when he’s not at work, Phillip indulges in hobbies like playing Madden with his younger brothers, participating in CrossFit, and deep-sea fishing with his dad. These activities help him recharge and maintain his high energy levels.
Phillip’s journey has been shaped by numerous mentors. From his childhood mentor Don Carlock, who taught him to pursue passion over money, to his Navy senior BMETs and peers, each has left a lasting impact. He values the lessons learned from each interaction and strives to pass on this wisdom to others in the HTM community.
Phillip’s most cherished project is the HTM Summer Bash, an event he organizes to bring together active duty and civilian HTM professionals. The inaugural event last year saw 50-60 attendees and focused on networking and camaraderie. This year, the event has expanded, with over 100 participants expected. The main objective is to help active duty BMETs network with civilian organizations, creating opportunities for future careers.
To learn more about HTM Summer Bash and its schedule on May 24-25, 2024, click here if you wish to attend the event.
Looking to the Future
Phillip sees the HTM industry evolving rapidly, with advancements in AI and IT integration. He believes future BMETs will need certifications like A+ and Security Network+ to stay relevant. He also emphasizes the importance of predictive maintenance and the role of AI in enhancing healthcare technology management.
Phillip hopes to be remembered for his dedication to helping others and creating opportunities for fellow BMETs. He aspires to leave a legacy of care, innovation, and community within the HTM industry, ensuring that future generations have the support and resources they need to succeed.
Phillip Villegas’ story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community in the HTM industry. His journey inspires us all to push boundaries, innovate, and make a difference.
For Phillips's live interview on HTM On The Line Podcast, simply click here.
Our heartfelt thanks to our partners: The College of Biomedical Equipment Technology, A.M. Bickford, PM Biomedical, and Talent Exclusive for their invaluable support. Their commitment to the HTM industry's progress is commendable. Visit their websites for more information:
For more podcast episodes, motivational videos, blogs, and newsletters, make sure to visit our website at HTM On The Line. We look forward to connecting with you".
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