What is your job title/your role at Scottish Rite for Children?
I am an orthotics and prosthetics technician. It’s my job to make all the orthotic and prosthetic devices for our patients. I also repair broken or worn devices.
What do you do on a daily basis or what sort of duties do you have at work?
I spend half my time fabricating prosthetic devices in the lab outside the main building, and the other half is spent in the Orthotics & Prosthetics main lab on the Lower Level. My duties include filling plaster models, thermoforming plastic and making orthotic devices. I also assist practitioners with repairs, and I run the seven-axis robot carver where we prepare our models for scoliosis braces. Our technician team fabricates thousands of orthotic and prosthetic devices every year!
What was your first job? What path did you take to get here or what led you to Scottish Rite?
For my first job, I was a cart attendant and grocery bagger at Kroger when I was 16. I like to say that Scottish Rite found me. I lost my job in 2008 when the economy collapsed, and I was desperate to find another job. I heard about an entry level position at the hospital through a friend of the family, and I applied. I quickly fell in love with work, the hospital’s mission, and amazing people here. Sixteen years later, and I have certifications in both orthotics and prosthetics. I love the work I do!
What do you enjoy most about Scottish Rite?
I love the culture here – everyone is friendly, helpful and devoted to the mission. I also really love the camps and trips the hospital organizes for our patients. I have had the honor and privilege of attending a few summer hand camps and, most recently, the Amputee Ski Trip. They are truly transformative for the kiddos!
Tell us something about your job that others might not already know?
Every prosthetic device we make is completely custom-made and will only fit the child it’s made for. It also takes a few weeks from casting to fitting for each device.
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
I hiked a trail called Angel’s Landing at Zion National Park in Utah. It was the scariest thing I ever, did but the view at the end was worth it!
What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
I don’t really play any team sports, but I do enjoy mountain biking and watching football. Go Cowboys!
If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to?
I would go back to when the pyramids were being built just so I could see how they did it.
What’s one fun fact about yourself?
I have an identical twin brother.
