April 7, 2000

For many high school students, after-school activities include sports, theater or volunteering on the school yearbook or newspaper staff. At Boston High School, however, approximately 30 students participate in the ProTech Program and continue their school day at the MGH. This multi-year, school-to-career program integrates classroom and work-based learning to prepare students for challenging careers in the health care field. Henry Ryan, director of the ProTech Program and corporate director of Partners Employment and Training, and Gilbert Reppucci, ProTech coordinator, support the program's training and employment process at the MGH.

"Each student brings their unique selves to the MGH, and I am often amazed at the difference ProTech makes for each of them," says Reppucci. "They learn invaluable work ethics under the mentorship of our best managers and staff at the MGH."

Patricia Marotta, unit operations manager in Radiology, right, and ProTech students, Jerry Jones, left, and Wendy Pomales, study a patient's film.

Now in its eighth year, ProTech allows juniors and seniors to develop the skills needed for success in their future careers. The ProTech work-based curriculum and worksite rotations give students the opportunity to explore a wide range of occupations and skill requirements. The Boston High School students are recruited during their sophomore year and are required to complete an extensive application process. Joelle Berthelot, Boston High School's ProTech coordinator, works with each student to ensure success in job placement and in the classroom.

Some of the departments that participate in the ProTech program at the MGH include Pathology, Radiology and MassGeneral Hospital for Children. Supervisors from each department expose the students to the fundamentals of the particular job while assigning projects and daily responsibilities.

Mike Fredrickson, technical director of Anatomic Pathology, has participated in the ProTech program from the beginning. "I always have felt it is my responsibility to help these students become part of the department's production team," says Fredrickson. "They work diligently on each project because they are treated like employees. Students work with and label slides, and perform other clerical duties, allowing this department to run more smoothly. They are an integral part of MGH Pathology."

Patricia Marotta, unit operations manager in Radiology, also has been a supervisor and longtime supporter of ProTech. "The ProTech program gives these students important jobs, enhancing their self-esteem and challenging their prospective career goals," she says. "I am always amazed with the level of maturity and strong work ethic of my students. This program is an excellent investment for both employer and student."

For more information about the program, call Reppucci at 6-5741.