Grad Discovers Rewarding Career in Heart-Health

When Nicholas Blackwell decided to attend Piedmont Technical College to receive training that would prepare him for a career, he was not completely sure what direction to take.

After receiving suggestions from family and help from an academic advisor at the college, he chose cardiovascular technology.

“Once I got into the CVT program, I became fascinated with the function of the heart,” Blackwell said.

Not only did his interest in the program grow as he continued his studies, Blackwell realized just how important his learning environment was in helping him obtain the skills he needed.

“I had teachers who truly cared about the success of their students and that encouraged me to work hard toward my goals,” said Blackwell.

Blackwell also had an opportunity to apply the skills he was learning in lab settings and a real-world environment before entering the workforce.

“I was able to go to different doctors’ offices and hospitals and get experience working with real patients,” he said.

Within a month of graduation from the cardiovascular technology program, Blackwell had a job at Self Regional Healthcare. Now he has a message for those who are trying to make the decision to go back to college.

“If someone was considering continuing their education, I would encourage them to do so,” he said. “By doing that you will open up more possibilities for your future.”

Blackwell added, “Going back to college has given me a career I love, and a higher standard of living.”

For more information on the cardiovascular technology program, contact Laura Boone at (864) 941-8717 or Christy Nichols at (864) 941-8618 or go to www.ptc.edu/cardio.