Conference Sessions Introducing the BMET Track in HOSA: Building the Next Generation of HTM Professionals
Objectives
Highlight the talent shortage crisis in HTM and the historical invisibility of BMET careers to high school students interested in healthcare and engineering.
Showcase the collaborative solution: the creation and launch of the first-ever BMET competitive event within HOSA, supported by posters sent to over 600 schools in 2024 and comprehensive digital resources in 2025.
Demonstrate early success and momentum, with 528 registrations and participation from 15 states in the program’s debut year, underscoring latent student interest once the career is made visible.
Promote equitable access, emphasizing free donated coursework, 2D (not 3D) VR simulations, and a simple test format that levels the playing field for students from all school types and funding levels.
Connect the pathway to credentials and jobs, explaining how participation prepares students for the CABT certification and direct entry into HTM roles.
Mobilize the professional community, urging attendees to volunteer at local, regional, or state HOSA events to staff information tables, answer questions, and inspire the next generation of BMETs.
Inspire sustained partnership, positioning the initiative as a scalable, long-term strategy to transform the HTM workforce pipeline through ongoing outreach, resource improvement, and industry involvement.
Session Abstract
The “AAMI/CBET HOSA Presentation_2026” is a compelling advocacy deck that details a landmark collaborative initiative by AAMI, the College of Biomedical Equipment Technology (CBET), and the American Hospital Association (AHA) to address the critical talent shortage in Health Technology Management (HTM) by introducing high school students to Biomedical Equipment Technician (BMET) careers through HOSA–Future Health Professionals. Launched in September 2025, the new BMET competitive event—supported by a dedicated landing page with free coursework (AAMI’s BMET101 and CBET’s MET100), accessible 2D VR simulations, and study modules—provides equitable preparation resources, enabling any motivated student to compete via a straightforward 50-question multiple-choice test. Already in its inaugural year, the event has attracted 528 registrations across 15 states, demonstrating strong early interest, while updated CABT certification eligibility and discounted pricing for HOSA students create a clear pathway to entry-level HTM roles. The presentation emphasizes the strategic importance of early exposure, celebrates the program’s rapid impact, and issues a direct call to action for HTM professionals to volunteer at regional and state events to help build a sustainable, diverse talent pipeline.
Speaker Profiles
Dr. Gonzales is a retired U.S. Army Officer with over 35 years in leadership, education, and training. He has served as the President of the College of Biomedical Equipment Technology (CBET.EDU) since 2018.
