Histologic Technicians

To learn more about this career, take a tour of a local hospital or laboratory to see histologic technicians at work. Read as much as you can about histology and clinical laboratory science. Visit the Web sites of industry associations, such as the National Society for Histotechnology, to learn more about the field and to see if there are upcoming events or programs you can attend. If you're in school, ask your biology teacher or career counselor to arrange an information interview with a histologic technician. Suggested interview questions include: What made you want to enter this career? What type of tools and equipment do you use to do your work? What do you like most and least about your job? How did you train for this field? What are some key skills for success? What advice would you give to young people about preparing for the field and being successful on the job? How will advances in technology change the field? Perhaps you could even job-shadow a histologic technician to learn even more about the field.

Consider joining HOSA-Future Health Professionals, a national membership organization for high school and college students who are interested in pursuing careers in health care. HOSA offers a variety of competitions for aspiring medical professionals, including those in Clinical Laboratory Science, Anatomy & Physiology, and Medical Terminology. Learn more at https://hosa.org/guidelines.

Check out the National Society for Histotechnology's podcast channel, HistoTalks (https://www.nsh.org/career/my-career/career-podcasts) to listen to podcasts that discuss careers, workplace issues, and other topics. You should also read the society's blog, "Fixation on Histology," https://www.nsh.org/learn/nsh-publications/fixation-on-histology-blog. In addition, the Digital Pathology Association offers the Beyond The Scope podcast (https://digitalpathologyassociation.org/dpa-podcast-beyond-the-scope) and a blog (https://digitalpathologyassociation.org/blog).

Participate in summer exploration programs in laboratory science and related fields that are offered by colleges and universities.