More than Adventure
"Besides an adventure, what else will I get from traveling?"
I'm asked that question all of the time from the technologists I work with, especially once the initial thrill subsides.
My initial response is that traveling will provide technologists with an opportunity to make an excellent wage and the ability to see interesting parts of the country they may not otherwise experience. But, it can provide much more.
In reality most of the travelers I work with are offered direct hire positions in the facilities where they are working. This gives them an excellent opportunity to evaluate a potential full time position without the fear of committing to a life altering change.
During the time a technologist is on an assignment they can not only evaluate the inner working of the department but they can also decide if the location will suite them.
I've found in several cases good fits are found in the most unlikely locations. New Mexico, for instance, has a great cultural and art scene that most people are completely unaware of. Locations like these seem to be a better fit than some of the larger cities due to the lower cost of living and excellent social opportunities.
One other benefit of being a traveling technologist is the opportunity to learn new equipment or procedures. Several of teaching facilities in the Midwest are thrilled to have contract employees who will not only take the time to learn new pieces of equipment but also help educate some of the students who are doing clinical work in there facilities. It works out to be advantageous to both parties.
What are some other benefits you in the field have found from traveling?
