UPHS – Marquette Heroes | Mike Reckker, CRNA

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I provide anesthesia services in the operating room, cath lab, and other settings. I specialize in cardiothoracic and vascular services, serving as the primary certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) for the cardiothoracic and vascular surgery (CTVS) team at UP Health System–Marquette (UPHS–Marquette).

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I took a variety of science classes, such as biology and biochemistry at NMU, and enjoyed them. I took a human anatomy class and I gravitated towards healthcare. After taking a pharmacology class, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine.

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

A typical day for me starts with setting up the operating room and getting ready for a patient’s surgery. I figure out what type of anesthesia is required not just for the surgery, but also for the patient. It is a collaborative effort with my fellow anesthesia colleagues, surgeons, nurses, perfusionists, surgical technicians, and advanced practice providers to ensure that open heart surgeries, along with the other surgeries we provide, are efficient and safe for our patients. It is a very rewarding job, and I am proud to represent my fellow anesthesia associates of Marquette.

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

I have worked here for thirty-four years as a CRNA at UPHS Marquette. I am proud to have been a part of this organization, and my continued loyalty speaks volumes to the organization as a whole.

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

The biggest change I have experienced is moving to a new hospital. Our patients are very fortunate to have access to state-of-the-art equipment, especially in a rural area compared to bigger cities.

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

I enjoy spending time with my family. We partake in a variety of outdoor activities, such as cross-country and downhill skiing, fishing, and hiking. 

My favorite local gem is M-28 beach, which is where we take our dogs swimming in the summer. We also mountain bike the Noquemanon Trail Network South Trails frequently in the summer.

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

I have been fortunate enough to work with my entire family over the years. My wife worked in the operating room with Dr. Geissler, a plastic surgeon, and was his nurse for many years. Both my son and daughter worked in the ICU. My son followed in my footsteps and became a CRNA. We now work alongside each other. My daughter is now an NP for the CTVS team, which is the main service that I provide anesthesia for. It has been so rewarding to work with all of them, along with watching them grow into their respective roles. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work with many great surgeons, anesthesia providers, and OR staff over the years. I am proud to be a part of Anesthesia Associates of Marquette.