If you could have a choice between talking with a recruiter like me about what it’s like to be a traveling healthcare professional, or talking to someone who has the experience working as a traveler, what would you pick? I think most people would choose to inquire about travel from someone who has actually done it. And ta-da! That’s when a lightbulb went off in my head. Since I’m lucky enough to spend my days talking to travelers, I thought I could interview one who has extensive experience working as one, and then write a blog to relay the information for others who are interested in potentially pursuing a career as a traveler.
I started by reaching out to Connie Kubiak, who is an EEG Tech, and she graciously agreed to an interview. Not only is Connie a seasoned traveler with five years of experience working assignments, but she’s been in the field of neurodiagnostics since 1982 which makes her a great candidate to pull knowledge from and use as a resource. Now, let’s get to know Connie a little more and her perspective on what it’s like to travel. Read on below!
- How did you learn about the travel opportunities available for EEG Techs?
As a tech in Florida, I knew of nursing, RT and other travel staff. They were used a lot due to the increase in winter population there. As I grew in my field, and became a Lab Coordinator, I 
had the need for a temporary tech. I found a travel tech. While she worked for me, I asked a ton of questions. I went online and found 3 companies, requested information, and as they say the rest is history.
- What’s your background as an EEG Tech and why did you choose this field as a career?
As a child, I had “events”, EEGs and Phenobarb for several years. I was NOT the best EEG patient. Originally, I worked in non-invasive cardiology. I wanted to be trained to do Echos (the technology was just starting) and my supervisor told me I wasn’t smart enough. The Director then gave me the opportunity to be trained on the job at a small community hospital in Central Florida. I loved the fact I didn’t hurt anyone, it was quiet work and the brain and Neuroanatomy fascinated me.
During a system install at a hospital in town that I covered for vacation, the Tech Rep asked where I went to school. At the time Florida had 3 accredited programs. Due to some personal relationship issues, I knew I needed a career and NOT just a job. So, I went to school in Tampa, lived and worked in Kissimmee, FL, and for 14 mos did the drive. BEST decision I ever made. I have been in the field since 1982. I have been a Travel EEG Tech since 2013. Originally, I worked through 2 companies. I am now exclusively with Aureus (I like the way I’m treated when I call). I travel 6-9 months a year and spend winters with the grandchildren.
- What made you decide to take the leap from a full time position to begin traveling?
It wasn’t easy. I did lots of research and spoke with my recruiter over a year. He was kind enough to answer all of my questions, and was honest, I think, with every response. I left a great job with a not so great boss. I decided I needed some change.
- What’s the biggest challenge you face while working as a traveler?
- Staff and Management sometimes forget you’re not a staff person.
- As someone who has been in the field a long time, I cannot go in and expect things done “my way”.
- Continuing Education and Training can be tough—that’s not a benefit like some locations offer.
- Medical care for those things not hospital worthy—sometimes Urgent Care centers don’t work.
- If there’s one piece of advice you’d give someone interested in pursuing travel opportunities, what would it be?
Personally, I don’t believe you should travel until you are credentialed and/or have 3-5 years clinical experience. You usually are requested to hit the ground running with minimal orientation. Get EVERYTHING in writing—just because you talked about it, doesn’t mean 
that’s how it will be. I also request an interview every time.
Research several travel companies to find your best fit—sometimes the hourly rate isn’t always the best motivation.
- How have you found travel assignments to be rewarding?
I LOVE the flexibility and the fact I am not being called after hours to problem solve a Lab issue. As a Travel Tech I go to work, do my job, and leave at the end of the day. Personally, I have met (and still call them friends) terrific people. I always learn something new at each location, and I have been to some terrific places.
- What states have you worked in as a traveler, and how do you determine where you’ll go next?
Pennsylvania, Michigan (x3, if it’s greater than 50mi from home), Oregon, Nebraska, Florida, Arizona, Missouri, Kentucky
I have a Bucket List for locations. I make my decisions depending on where I currently am, if I have family or friends in/near the location, facility prestige, weather, job description, and I also do family genealogy—so I need to do research in that location.
- What’s been your favorite assignment so far, and why?
Bend, Oregon—the geography and location was AWESOME. The facility had a tremendous amount of respect for the Lab and the Staff. The Lab was “self taught” with some conferences and training seminars, all credentialed staff and TERRIFIC to work with!!
- What qualities are important to look for in a recruiter and agency?
I want to be treated with respect and dignity. As a professional, I don’t want to feel coerced, 
strong armed or threatened to take a position. The first person I spoke with at Aureus is still my contact every time I look for a position. And HE is AWESOME!!
- Is there anything else that we haven’t touched on that you feel is important to share about traveling as an EEG Tech?
- The challenges can be tough. Travel as a whole can be isolating. BUT—the rewards from the diversity of locations, facilities and people are so awesome, I cannot imagine doing anything different!!
- Travel is also a great way (if you decided to settle down)to “try on” a facility or location and see how it fits.
- I find I now have time to pursue other career goals (society work, training, etc.) that I never had before.
- I travel in my motorhome whenever I can—allows me to have the housing stipend
If you have travel experience, what information can you add to help inform your peers who might be interested? Also, if you have specific questions comment below and we’ll help answer them!
Katie Lutmer is a Recruiter for the Aureus Medical Social Media Recruitment Team.