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Senior Clinical Engineering Director Angela Ferguson-Bennett recognized with 2020 AAMI Young Professional Award

 

Angela Ferguson-Bennett, senior clinical engineering director/manager for Ascension Borgess Health System/Ascension Allegan General Hospital, recently learned she is the recipient of the 2020 AAMI Young Professional Award. 

The Young Professional Award is presented annually to an individual under the age of 35 who exhibits exemplary professional accomplishments and a commitment to the healthcare profession. Along with meeting set criteria, the recipient must show engagement in the industry in a variety of ways and is a positive role model to their peers through examples of leadership and other core values.  

 “Receiving this award is a blessing and validation that I have chosen the right career that empowers me and allows my healthcare technology management fire to burn bright,” says Angela. “When I was in high school, I had an English teacher tell me ‘If you choose the right career that you are passionate about, you will never work a day in your life.’ I have been very fortunate to work for a company that sees my potential and gives me the opportunity to rise and thrive.” 

Angela’s team has been recognized in 24x7 Magazineand they share the same philosophy in helping and serving others first. Her team does whatever it takes to positively impact patient outcomes and to ensure those that care for patients have the tools they need. Her nomination came from three TRIMEDX colleagues: Billie Thurston (regional director, service North), Jose Rico (supervisor, clinical engineering) and Wesley Reid (supervisor, supply chain). 

“I cannot think of someone more deserving of this award than Angela Bennett,” says Jeffry Ruiz, technology manager. “An example of Angela’s commitment to the HTM community is her work in the development and implementation of the West Michigan Biomed Society. This is no small task, and she has displayed strong organizational and positive energy in getting this Society established.” 

Angela highlights the fact that she had leaders come before her who served as role models to her. She strives to exceed those expectations each day. “If I am half as successful as the women leaders in my life, I will consider myself lucky to have followed in their footsteps and blaze my own trail for my futureI am also lucky and fortunate to have such an amazing team that motivates me every day and supports me as their leader and partner. 

She started out as a biomedical engineering tech in the United States Military six years ago, and today Angela is a clinical engineering director. “Because of the United States Army and TRIMEDX, I have found a point in my life where I’m no longer searching for what I want to do and what I want to beI’m actually doing it and living it. 

Billie Thurston, regional director for Michigan in service operations, says Angela has made an extreme difference with biomedical groups on the Michigan’s west side“She has taken it upon herself to make a difference by creating the first western Michigan biomedical society group and has spoken at conventions representing our company.” 

Angela’s goal to make a difference and live up to the TRIMEDX core value is something she holds closeShe wants to positively impact someone she each daywhether through a simple smile or knowing she and her team did their bestAnd she hopes to pass along the experience she has been able to garner to others.  

When asked why she likes working for TRIMEDX, Angela says, “I don’t like working for TRIMEDX, I love working for TRIMEDX. This company has given me opportunities to succeed.” 

Jose Rico touched upon Angela’s outgoing and cheerful demeanor, along with her willingness to take the lead on projects such as upgrading patient monitoring system“She took charge and made sure it was smooth transition for the hospital.” 

“Angela is a true leader, motivator and a role model,” says Jose. “She has taught me a lot, and I continue to learn from her. She is the prime example of manager for which I strive to be in the future.”