Your Medical Technician Entry Guide: Skills for a 2026 Lab Career

The healthcare landscape is perpetually evolving, but for aspiring professionals, the medical lab technician career in 2026 presents a horizon brimming with unparalleled opportunity. As we approach mid-decade, a significant shift is underway, creating a critical demand for skilled individuals ready to make a tangible impact on patient care.

The Looming Talent Gap and Growing Demand

Forecasters project a robust growth rate for the medical technician field, with some estimates reaching an 11% increase by 2030 for medical lab technicians. This translates to approximately 22,600 job openings anticipated between 2022 and 2032. This surge isn’t just about new positions; it’s exacerbated by a significant wave of retirements. Up to 60% of the current medical laboratory workforce is expected to reach retirement eligibility by 2026, creating a widening talent gap that urgently needs to be filled.

The demand for skilled medical technicians is outpacing the supply.

This creates an ideal scenario for those looking to embark on a stable and impactful medical career path 2026. The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was approximately $61,890 in May 2024, reflecting the value placed on these essential roles (BLS). This financial stability, combined with job security, makes the profession highly attractive.

The Critical Role of Medical Technicians in Modern Healthcare

Medical technicians are the unsung heroes behind every diagnosis, performing crucial tests on bodily fluids and tissue samples that inform treatment plans and prevent disease. Their work is foundational to patient outcomes. As laboratories increasingly integrate advanced technology, including AI and automation, the need for professionals skilled in digital systems and sophisticated instrumentation is growing exponentially. This evolution highlights a dynamic and engaging environment for your healthcare support career.

This guide will explore the essential skills, training, and pathways to prepare you for this thriving field. Whether you’re considering a complete career change or looking to advance your existing skills, understanding the landscape of 2026 is your first step. For those ready to seize this moment, institutions like Beacon Hill Career Training offer targeted programs designed to build foundational skills and enhance training methodologies, helping students achieve excellence in the medical field. Explore how to begin your journey to a fulfilling medical technician career and discover the steps to become a medical technician in this opportune time.

Medical technicians are the unsung architects of modern healthcare, operating at the critical intersection of science, technology, and patient care. While often working behind the scenes, their precise work directly underpins nearly every diagnostic and treatment decision made by physicians. These professionals are not just performing tests; they are meticulously decoding the body’s signals to illuminate the path forward for patient health.

The Daily Impact: From Samples to Solutions

At the core of medical technologist roles lies the responsibility for performing a vast array of laboratory tests. This involves analyzing blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids for abnormalities that indicate disease, infection, or other health conditions. My experience has shown that a typical day in a clinical laboratory involves a dynamic mix of tasks:

• Sample Processing: Receiving and preparing specimens for analysis, ensuring integrity and proper identification.
• Equipment Operation: Utilizing sophisticated instruments like automated analyzers, microscopes, and cell counters to conduct tests with precision.
• Data Analysis: Interpreting test results, recognizing patterns, and correlating findings with patient symptoms.
• Quality Control: Rigorously monitoring laboratory procedures and equipment to guarantee accuracy and reliability of results.
• Documentation: Meticulously recording and reporting findings, often using advanced Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).

Their vigilance ensures that every data point is accurate, influencing patient outcomes directly.

Navigating Technology: The Digital Frontier of Clinical Laboratory Jobs

The landscape of clinical laboratory jobs is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements. Medical technicians today are increasingly interacting with cutting-edge tools, including AI-powered diagnostics and automated laboratory systems. This shift demands a specific set of skills:

• Digital Literacy: Proficiency in operating complex software and Laboratory Information Systems (LIS).
• Troubleshooting: The ability to identify and resolve issues with advanced instrumentation quickly.
• Adaptability: A constant willingness to learn and integrate new technologies and methodologies into daily practice.

This integration of technology significantly enhances efficiency and accuracy, allowing technicians to handle a larger volume of tests with greater precision. It’s why organizations like Beacon Hill Career Training focus on practical, foundational skills that prepare individuals for this tech-driven environment.

Contribution to Patient Care: The Diagnostic Backbone

Medical technicians are indispensable in the diagnostic process. Without their expertise, accurate disease detection, monitoring, and even preventative care would be severely hampered. As highlighted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians perform medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. The insights they provide enable doctors to:

• Diagnose conditions ranging from diabetes to cancer.
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatments and medication.
• Identify infectious agents and guide antibiotic choices.
• Screen for various health risks.

Every test performed is a step closer to a correct diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Essential Skills for a Thriving Career

For anyone considering a career in these vital laboratory roles, developing both technical and soft skills is paramount. Beyond operating equipment, critical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are non-negotiable. As discussed on Indeed, medical technologists require a combination of hard and soft skills, including dexterity, communication, and maintaining quality control. For those looking to enter this field, comprehensive training, often available through a medical technician online course, is key to building these competencies. You can explore options for online medical lab technician training to prepare for this rewarding career path.

With projections indicating a consistent demand for skilled professionals—some sources predict a 5-13% growth in the field by 2032, leading to approximately 22,600 job openings—the role of a medical technician is not just pivotal, but also a stable and impactful career choice. To understand the day-to-day work, delving into a medical technician career path can provide further clarity. Discover more about the daily impact of these professionals in “Behind the Scenes: A Medical Technician’s Daily Impact in 2026.”

For those ready to embrace this vital role, focusing on practical, skill-based learning, as offered by Beacon Hill Career Training, provides a direct route to contributing meaningfully to patient health and the broader healthcare system. Visit fastcareertraining.com now to explore programs that build foundational skills for high-demand healthcare roles.

Embarking on a career as a medical technician offers a stable and impactful path within the burgeoning healthcare sector. Understanding the precise educational requirements is the critical first step to navigating this promising field, especially with the projected growth of 5% in the coming years. This isn’t just about gaining a degree; it’s about acquiring the specialized knowledge and practical skills that labs demand today and into 2026.

Charting Your Academic Journey: Degree Options

The primary entry point for most aspiring medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) is typically an associate’s degree. This focused two-year program provides the core competencies needed to perform a wide range of laboratory tests and work with sophisticated equipment.

An associate’s degree provides a robust foundation for immediate entry into the lab.

While an associate’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) or Clinical Laboratory Science is often sufficient, some advanced roles, particularly those for Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs, often requiring a bachelor’s degree), may prefer or mandate a four-year bachelor’s degree in a related scientific field, such as biology, chemistry, or medical technology. This distinction is crucial as you plan your medical technician education and consider your long-term career aspirations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that while technicians can qualify with an associate’s, technologists typically need a bachelor’s degree, offering a potential advancement path through further education.

Essential Coursework and Skill Building

Regardless of whether you pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s, your curriculum will be rigorous and highly specialized. Key med tech requirements often include:

• Chemistry: Organic, inorganic, and biochemistry are foundational for understanding lab reagents and reactions.
• Biology: Including microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology, essential for analyzing samples and identifying pathogens.
• Hematology: The study of blood and blood-forming tissues, crucial for blood tests and diagnostics.
• Clinical Laboratory Science: Hands-on training in laboratory procedures, quality control, and instrument operation.
• Mathematics and Statistics: For data analysis, quality control calculations, and understanding test reliability.

These courses are not merely academic exercises; they are the bedrock upon which your practical skills will be built. You’ll gain proficiency in operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, along with developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for accurate analysis.

The Importance of Accreditation

Choosing an accredited program is non-negotiable. Programs accredited by agencies like the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) ensure that the curriculum meets industry standards and prepares you for certification and employment. Many states and employers require graduation from an accredited program for licensure or hiring.

Accreditation ensures your education is recognized and respected across the industry.

The Lab Technician Steps to Certification

After completing your accredited education, the next vital step is obtaining professional certification. Organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and American Medical Technologists (AMT) offer highly regarded certifications. For instance, the AMT Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification typically requires an associate’s degree from an accredited program and may also consider relevant clinical experience, especially if your graduation was more than five years ago.

Achieving certification significantly enhances your job prospects and is often a prerequisite for state licensure, which can vary by location. It demonstrates to employers that you possess a verified level of competence and professionalism. For those exploring the flexibility of modern learning, options like online medical technician online course and med tech online certification can be viable pathways, provided they are accredited and prepare you adequately for these exams. You can explore the realities of certifying online by visiting resources like realistic online medical technician certification options to see if they align with your goals.

Navigating Your Path to Becoming a Medical Technician

To summarize the academic journey for how to become a medical technician:

1. Select an Accredited Program: Enroll in an associate’s (MLT) or bachelor’s (MLS/MT) degree program with NAACLS accreditation.
2. Master Core Coursework: Excel in chemistry, biology, hematology, and clinical laboratory sciences.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: Many programs include clinical rotations, providing invaluable hands-on training.
4. Obtain Certification: Pass a national certification exam (e.g., ASCP, AMT) to validate your skills.
5. Meet State Licensure: Fulfill any state-specific requirements for practicing as a medical technician.

For individuals seeking to build foundational skills or pursue specific certifications efficiently, providers like Beacon Hill Career Training offer online, self-paced certificate programs tailored for high-growth roles in healthcare. These can be an excellent way to prepare for certain entry-level positions or to supplement your formal education with practical, job-focused skills. Their emphasis on practical training methodologies ensures that you are ready for real-world applications in the medical field.

Successfully navigating these educational pathways will equip you with the expertise and credentials necessary to thrive in a medical laboratory, contributing directly to patient care and diagnostic accuracy.

Landing a rewarding position as a medical technician isn’t just about accumulating knowledge; it’s about validating that expertise through certification. Without this crucial step, many doors in the healthcare industry simply won’t open. Certification transforms your dedication into a recognized professional credential, setting you apart in a competitive job market.

Why Certification is Non-Negotiable for Aspiring Med Techs

Think of certification as your professional passport in the medical field. It signals to employers that you not only possess the necessary skills but also adhere to established industry standards for quality and patient safety. This isn’t merely a formality; it’s a testament to your competence and commitment.

Certification is often the bridge from aspiring to employed.

The medical technician field is experiencing significant growth, with thousands of job openings projected. However, laboratories are also integrating advanced technology, requiring a workforce that is not only skilled but also formally credentialed. Certification ensures you meet these evolving demands.

Key Certifying Bodies and What They Offer

Several prominent organizations provide certification for medical technicians, each with its own specific pathways and examinations. Understanding these bodies is a vital step in mapping out your career.

• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): Widely recognized and highly respected, ASCP offers various certifications, including Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) and Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS). Their exams are comprehensive, covering all aspects of laboratory science.
• American Medical Technologists (AMT): AMT also offers the Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification, focusing on practical application and competency. Many employers accept both ASCP and AMT credentials.

Each body has specific eligibility requirements, often tied to your educational background and clinical experience. For those considering an online pathway, understanding these nuances is critical for earning your med tech online certification.

Navigating the Certification Exam Process

Earning your certification typically involves successfully passing a rigorous examination. These exams are designed to assess your theoretical knowledge and practical understanding across various laboratory disciplines, such as hematology, microbiology, chemistry, and blood banking.

Preparation is key. Many aspiring certified medical tech professionals benefit from structured study plans, practice tests, and review courses. Your educational program, such as the comprehensive offerings at Beacon Hill Career Training, often prepares you directly for these critical assessments. They focus on building foundational skills and enhancing training methodologies to ensure readiness for these high-stakes exams.

State-Specific Licensure: An Additional Layer

While national certification is widely accepted, some states require an additional step: state licensure. These med tech requirements vary significantly by location and might involve separate applications, fees, or even additional examinations. It’s imperative to research the specific regulations in the state where you plan to practice.

Staying informed about both national certification and state licensure is essential for career mobility.

This layered approach ensures that medical technicians meet both national competency standards and local regulatory demands, ultimately protecting public health. Understanding how to become a medical technician fully means grasping the entire credentialing landscape.

Certification as a Catalyst for Career Advancement

Beyond meeting baseline employment requirements, certification is a powerful engine for career advancement. Certified medical technicians often command higher salaries and have greater access to specialized roles or leadership opportunities. It demonstrates a proactive approach to professional development, which resonates with employers.

If you’re seeking to enhance your employment possibilities and achieve professional satisfaction, considering certificate training programs can be a game-changer. For guidance on selecting the best preparatory options, exploring resources like choosing the best Medical technician online course can provide valuable insights.

The clinical laboratory landscape is rapidly transforming, demanding new caliber professionals. Success in a 2026 lab hinges on a dynamic blend of technical mastery and acute interpersonal abilities. Individuals pursuing medical technologist roles must cultivate a diverse skill set.

Mastering Advanced Instrumentation

Modern labs rely on sophisticated machinery. Future medical technicians must intimately understand operating, calibrating, and maintaining automated analyzers and diagnostic equipment, including troubleshooting and grasping underlying principles. Proficiency with advanced lab equipment is non-negotiable for medical lab technician career progression. This technical competency ensures accurate, reliable test results, paramount for patient diagnosis. Hands-on experience is crucial for those looking to become medical technician 2026.

Digital Literacy and Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

As labs become increasingly digital, robust computer literacy is indispensable. Medical technicians must navigate Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) with ease, managing patient data, test orders, and results securely. This proficiency streamlines workflows, minimizes errors, and ensures data integrity, distinguishing top candidates in clinical laboratory jobs.

AI and Automation Acumen

Artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping laboratory roles. While machines handle repetitive tasks, technicians will increasingly oversee automated processes, interpret AI-generated insights, and validate system performance. This requires conceptual understanding. Future-ready medical technicians troubleshoot advanced instrumentation and leverage AI tools, not merely be replaced. This shift underscores continuous learning and adaptation with rapid technological integration.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Where patient outcomes depend on precision, critically analyzing unusual results, identifying anomalies, and troubleshooting complex problems is invaluable. Beyond protocol, this requires applying scientific principles under pressure. Medical technicians often serve as front-line diagnosticians, spotting critical health indicators.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

Rapid technological advancement means today’s cutting-edge quickly becomes standard. Successful medical technicians in 2026 will embrace continuous professional development, actively seeking new techniques, adapting to emerging technologies, and staying current. The medical technician career path demands lifelong learning.

Communication and Collaboration

Labs are rarely isolated. Effective communication with colleagues, nurses, and physicians is essential for conveying critical information, clarifying orders, and collaborating on patient care. Clear, concise, and professional communication skills are vital for all laboratory roles. Indeed.com emphasizes these interpersonal skills.

Attention to Detail and Manual Dexterity

Despite automation, many tasks still demand meticulous attention to detail and fine motor skills. Handling delicate samples, microscopic examinations, and precise pipetting remain core competencies. This precision directly impacts result accuracy and patient safety.

Building Your Skill Set for 2026

To prepare for these evolving medical technologist roles, aspiring professionals should seek training emphasizing theoretical knowledge and practical application. Beacon Hill Career Training offers online, self-paced certificate programs designed to build foundational skills for high-growth healthcare roles. Practical training translates into increased employment possibilities. Explore career-advancing opportunities at fastcareertraining.com. The demand for skilled medical technicians is growing significantly, creating a prime opportunity for individuals prepared with the right blend of hard and soft skills for clinical laboratory jobs.

The journey as a medical lab technician often begins at the bench, performing essential diagnostic tests that underpin patient care. But for those with ambition and a desire for deeper impact, the “bench” is rarely the final destination. The landscape of medical career path 2026 is rich with opportunities for growth, specialization, and leadership within clinical laboratory jobs.

Advancing from Technician to Technologist

One of the most direct avenues for career progression is transitioning from a medical lab technician (MLT) to a medical laboratory technologist (MT or MLS). While MLTs typically hold an associate degree, MTs often pursue a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related life science field. This educational leap broadens their scope of practice, allowing them to perform more complex tests, analyze intricate data, and even contribute to research. As the industry evolves with new technologies like AI and automation, this deeper understanding becomes increasingly vital.

Further education opens doors to higher responsibilities and earning potential.

For instance, the median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was approximately $61,890 in May 2024, but technologists often command higher salaries due to their advanced qualifications. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that clinical laboratory technologists and technicians with a bachelor’s degree can advance to technologist positions after gaining experience and additional education, as detailed in their occupational outlook handbook. For those considering this path, exploring how to become a medical technologist outlines the necessary steps and skills.

Specialization and Niche Expertise

The medical lab offers a diverse array of specialized areas where technicians can hone their skills and become experts. This move from generalist to specialist can significantly enhance a medical lab technician career. Some key areas include:

• Microbiology: Identifying bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms to diagnose infections.
• Hematology: Analyzing blood components to detect conditions like anemia or leukemia.
• Immunohematology (Blood Banking): Performing blood typing and cross-matching for transfusions.
• Clinical Chemistry: Analyzing bodily fluids for chemical components to monitor organ function or drug levels.
• Molecular Diagnostics: Utilizing advanced genetic techniques for disease detection and prognosis.

Specialized certifications, such as those offered by the American Medical Technologists (AMT) for medical laboratory technician roles, can validate expertise in these niche areas, making individuals more competitive for advanced clinical laboratory jobs. These certifications often require specific educational backgrounds and practical experience.

Leadership and Emerging Roles

Beyond direct laboratory work, experienced medical technicians can move into leadership roles. These positions include lead technologist, section supervisor, or laboratory manager, overseeing operations, managing staff, and ensuring quality control. With the projected growth of 5% in the medical technician field and a significant portion of the workforce nearing retirement by 2026, there’s a clear demand for skilled leaders to fill this void.

Moreover, the rapid integration of AI and automation in laboratories creates entirely new roles. Technicians with strong digital literacy and an understanding of advanced instrumentation can transition into informatics specialists, instrument trainers, or even contribute to the development of new lab technologies.

Adaptability to new technologies is crucial for a thriving medical career path 2026.

At Beacon Hill Career Training, we understand the importance of continuous learning and skill development for career advancement. Our online, self-paced certificate programs are designed to build foundational skills and enhance training methodologies, preparing you for the evolving demands of the medical field. Whether you’re looking to specialize or step into a leadership role, investing in your education is the key to unlocking your full potential. Visit our site now at fastcareertraining.com to explore programs that can support your next career step.

Growing beyond the bench is not just possible; it’s a strategic move for any ambitious medical lab technician. With further education, specialized skills, and an eye on emerging technologies, you can carve out a fulfilling and impactful medical career path 2026 and beyond.

The medical laboratory industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements, persistent staffing challenges, and shifts in how healthcare is delivered. Understanding these evolving trends is crucial for anyone considering a medical career path 2026.

The Rise of AI and Automation in Laboratory Roles

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are no longer futuristic concepts; they are actively reshaping laboratory roles. Routine, repetitive tasks are increasingly being handled by robotic systems, freeing up medical technicians to focus on more complex analysis, quality control, and troubleshooting. This means the skills for a 2026 lab career are shifting from purely manual dexterity to cognitive oversight and digital proficiency.

Digital literacy is paramount for modern medical technicians.

Technicians are now expected to operate sophisticated instruments, interpret data from automated systems, and troubleshoot software glitches. This integration demands a new level of technical acumen, moving beyond traditional bench work. For a deeper dive into the daily impact of these shifts, explore the evolving medical technician career path.

Navigating the Talent Gap: A Prime Opportunity

One of the most significant demands shaping the industry is the looming staffing shortage. Projections indicate that up to 60% of the current medical laboratory workforce could be eligible for retirement by 2026. This creates an urgent need for new talent, making the medical career path 2026 exceptionally promising for those entering the field.

This talent gap means that well-trained and certified individuals will find themselves in high demand, securing stable and rewarding laboratory roles across the country. It’s a unique window of opportunity for aspiring professionals.

Evolving Healthcare Delivery and Its Impact

Healthcare delivery itself is changing, with a greater emphasis on efficiency, personalized medicine, and sometimes, even point-of-care testing outside traditional lab settings. This requires medical technicians to be adaptable, potentially engaging with new technologies that bring diagnostics closer to the patient. The demand for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians remains high, reflecting their indispensable role in this evolving landscape.

Key Skills for Future-Ready Lab Professionals

To thrive in this dynamic environment, certain skills for a 2026 lab career are becoming non-negotiable. These include:

• Digital Proficiency: Operating and troubleshooting advanced laboratory information systems and automated equipment.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Analyzing complex data, identifying anomalies, and resolving technical issues.
• Adaptability: Rapidly learning new technologies and protocols as they emerge.
• Communication: Effectively relaying crucial information to healthcare teams.

Understanding how to become a medical technologist in this new era involves embracing continuous learning and practical application. This is precisely where organizations like Beacon Hill Career Training come into play. We focus on providing the practical, industry-focused certificates that build these foundational skills, preparing you for high-growth, in-demand laboratory roles. Visit fastcareertraining.com now to explore programs that align with the future of medical labs.

The future of the medical lab industry is not just about technology; it’s about the skilled individuals who can harness these innovations to deliver better patient care. The medical career path 2026 offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey for those ready to adapt and excel.

The medical laboratory field isn’t just a job; it’s a rapidly expanding frontier brimming with opportunity and critical purpose. As we’ve explored throughout this guide, the path to becoming a vital part of modern healthcare as a medical technician is clearer and more accessible than ever, especially for those ready to embrace ongoing learning.

Your Future as a Medical Lab Professional

The outlook for a medical lab technician career is exceptionally promising. Projections indicate a robust growth of 5% to 13% by 2026 or 2030, with roughly 22,600 new job openings anticipated. This growth, coupled with a significant portion of the current workforce (up to 60%) reaching retirement eligibility by 2026, signals a widening talent gap that eager new professionals can readily fill. The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, standing at approximately $61,890 in May 2024, further underscores the financial stability this career offers, as reported by the median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians.

The demand for skilled medical technicians is outpacing supply, creating a robust job market.

Your journey to becoming a certified medical tech typically begins with obtaining an associate degree, followed by essential certification. Key coursework spans chemistry, biology, hematology, and clinical laboratory science. Certification, often from bodies like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or American Medical Technologists (AMT), is not merely a credential; it’s a gateway to state licensure and enhanced career prospects, setting you apart in a competitive field. You can explore specific certification requirements for medical laboratory technicians to understand the detailed steps.

Skills for the Modern Lab

The medical lab of 2026 and beyond demands a blend of traditional expertise and modern digital fluency. Beyond the foundational skills of operating sophisticated equipment and performing precise tests, proficiency in digital systems, AI, and automation is becoming indispensable. Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills remain paramount. These insights are crucial for understanding how to become a medical technologist who thrives in an evolving landscape.

Adaptability to new technologies is as crucial as scientific acumen in today’s medical labs.

This evolving landscape is precisely where Beacon Hill Career Training steps in, offering accessible, self-paced certificate programs designed to equip you with foundational skills for these high-growth, in-demand roles. Our focus is on practical training methodologies that prepare you for real-world applications, ensuring you gain the specific skills and certifications needed to increase your employment opportunities in healthcare.

Launch Your Impactful Career Today

Are you ready to seize this moment and launch an impactful career? The demand is clear, the pathways are defined, and the rewards are significant. Take the first step towards becoming a medical technician by exploring comprehensive training. Your journey to become a vital part of the healthcare system, contributing directly to patient care and scientific advancement, starts now. Discover more about the medical technician career path and how to begin your training.

Explore your options and start building your future in healthcare. Visit Beacon Hill Career Training to learn more about our specialized healthcare training programs. Your rewarding career as a medical technician awaits. For further guidance, consider reviewing our article on charting a medical technician career to map out your next steps.