Philip Graddy started his career at Beaumont Health more than 20 years go. In that time, he’s held multiple roles – cook, floor maintenance, cardiopulmonary technician and more.
During his time in CPD, he fell in love with the pace and environment of the operating room and decided to aim his talents toward becoming a surgical technologist – with a career goal of becoming a Surgical First Assistant (STFA).
“I was at a job fair at Beaumont, Troy when I first learned about the STFA role in surgery.
I was told that this profession is very rewarding because I would be directly across from the surgeon assisting them in the surgery and helping the patient firsthand,” explains Philip. “That was the day I also learned I would have to become
a surgical tech first to obtain my goal of becoming a STFA.”
Philip knew the process would take time, but he was dedicated to making it happen.
“Things don’t happen overnight for everyone,” says Philip, “But I knew what I wanted, so I kept working at it for all these years.”
He was originally attracted to Beaumont as an employer based on reputation and knowing that he’d be doing something to “make a difference and help patients feel better than they did before they arrived.”
The pride Philip has in his career isn’t just limited within the hospital. “When I’m at a conference, we’re always the gold standard that everyone compares themselves to,” he explains. “I take pride in being a Beaumont
employee based on the fact that we lead in so many specialties and services.”
After more than 20 years with Beaumont, Philip gives this advice to anybody starting their career or looking to make a change. “Be positive and be open to constructive criticism. Try to absorb everything you can from your team and always be open
to learning.”
If you're interested in a career as a surgical technologist, we have openings at all eight Southeast Michigan hospitals for day, night and rotating shifts.
Learn more about the role of surgical technologist.
Search and apply for open positions.