Biotechnology Education:

1999 AAS Biotech Lab Technician: Madison Area Technical College

2001 BS Business Administration: UW-Whitewater

Employer:

Roche Diagnostics

Roche is a leading healthcare company with a uniquely broad spectrum of innovative solutions. For more than 100 years, we have been active in the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of novel healthcare solutions. Our products and services address prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, thus enhancing well-being and quality of life.

Job Description and Responsibilities:

I currently sell to Physicians and Diabetes Educators Accu-Chek Diabetes Monitors

Personal Background:

I've worked in labs on 5 different continents, yet the training I received at MATC has put me ahead of nearly everyone.  I have been the lab with graduates from large universities, yet they have no real-world skills when it comes to technique or knowledge of equipment. The biggest hindrance I've had is the fact that the degree is an Associate Degree. Other Alumni have told me they have not been qualified for certain positions, it's a silly mindset that new grads have. They need to be more confident in their ability and demand the money they deserve.

Commonly Used Skills and Techniques:

Outgoing personality, quick problem solving ability, strong business sense. In my former position, I used several types of flow cytometers for DNA typing and antibody screening. Lymphocyte and DNA isolation, specialized software for the equipment. This lab experience is a good basis for a sales position.

Most Rewarding Job Attributes:

My new job allows me autonomy, flexible schedule, less travel, great perks and the ability to help people control their Diabetes.

Most Challenging Job Attributes:

The new technology is slow to the market and there is stiff competition.

Quote:

Since graduation, I, along with other former students have been out of work, downsized and underpaid. As a new lab tech, recent grads should take advantage of additional training. They should also be familiar with other products and departments in their companies (be versatile). Be part of committees, give tours, get certifications, talk to customers, etc. Being on the bottom of the totem pole, lends you to being easily let go during downturns in the economy, so MATC grads must differentiate themselves from everyone else. Being in sales, I see lots of reps that have no background in Biotech (and talk too much about what they don’t know). A biotech product sales job is a great alternative to working in the lab.