UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Jim Hausmann

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am the lead cardiac electrophysiology (EP) technologist in the interventional cardiac imaging department (cath lab) at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

In high school, I suffered an injury while playing football. Having to undergo multiple imaging procedures, I began to develop an interest in radiology. As I started to pursue that career after high school, I found a community that helped me achieve my goals.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

The world of EP is very fascinating. Just like all of health care, there is no typical day. In my area, the cath lab department, we ablate cardiac arrhythmias and implant pacemakers, ICDs and Watchman-related devices. We work side by side with cardiologists who specialize in electrophysiology, and we utilize other imaging modalities such as echo, cardiac CT and radiology. This variety, day to day, makes work both challenging and deeply rewarding.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

In my years at the hospital, I have had a couple of different jobs. I started my career as an MRI technologist in 1999. I later switched to the cath lab in 2017. My switch in positions gave me a new look at the healthcare world.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?  

As I have worked at this hospital for many years, I have seen many people come and go. Every doctor and locum is unique, and learning to adapt quickly has been very helpful. As technology changes, the differences in programs and how they work are a learning experience.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

Ever since I was a kid, I have been fascinated by fly-fishing. I enjoy every aspect of it, from tying my own flies to taking long road trips to locate my favorite streams and lakes. Here in Marquette County, my favorite place to fish is the Escanaba River. 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

Working here at UP Health System has shown me that the environment and coworkers can be more than just a team, but a family. Although I am honored to be nominated, it is this family of coworkers that should all be considered.