For October’s issue of Careers in Focus, the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation is highlighting Perry Kirwan, Vice President of Technology Management at Banner Health. Perry shares his background, career journey, and meaningful career advice.
Before moving to Arizona 35 years ago, Perry grew up in Maryland. He decided to attend Arizona State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science and master’s degree in Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. Before college, Perry was unaware of what technology management or biomedical engineering meant. Once he discovered that these studies involved fixing various types of medical equipment and helping doctors and nurses take care of patients, he was all in. During college, Perry had an internship at Good Samaritan Medical Center, now Banner University Medical Center. Once he finished school, he continued to work his way up at Banner University Medical Center, which led to his promotion to a director role. Perry held several leadership and program development positions for about 25 years until his current role as Vice President of the department. Along the way, his areas of responsibility have included company strategy, succession, business development, and technology.
Q: What advice do you have for people who may be interested in a similar career?
A: “This is the best career field that you’ve never heard of, and it’s one of the few STEM-related fields where you don’t need an advanced degree to get started. Gain first-hand experiences and pursue formal education. Role-specific credentials are also a great way to obtain deep knowledge and understanding that can be applied immediately.
Get involved in as many opportunities as possible because this is a field that is fast-paced and very dynamic. Be hungry to learn, help, and serve others.”
Perry Kirwan currently resides in Phoenix with his wife and three children. He is a classically trained pianist and plays multiple instruments and music genres. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, building things, and traveling.