UPHS — Marquette Heroes | Eric Burdick, MBA, RRT, LRT

Erick Burdick, MBA, RRT, LRT, Director of Respiratory Care at UP Health System – Marquette.

What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?
I am the Director of Respiratory Care at UP Health System – Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
When I was finishing up high school, I went to a job fair and this field sparked my interest. I could complete the college program locally, and there is a consistent need for Respiratory Care Practitioners, so there are many job opportunities.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field? 
In Respiratory Care, there is rarely a typical day. In summary, my team and I manage many aspects of patients with respiratory disorders, including managing mechanical ventilators for patients of all ages, artificial airways, and the delivery of aerosolized medications. Especially during the pandemic, the job constantly changes on a day-by-day, hour-by-hour, minute-by-minute basis, so there is always something to do.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?
I’ve worked here for 22 years (1994 to 2003 and 2009 to present). I started as a Registered Respiratory Therapist before becoming a Supervisor, then Clinical Coordinator and Interim Program Director for the School of Respiratory Care, and finally Director of the Respiratory Care Department.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
The field is constantly evolving — from new equipment and procedures, to patient complexities and disease management, to health care infrastructure changes.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?
I enjoy anything outdoors — hunting, fishing, barbecuing, walking or riding bikes around town, and just sitting and relaxing on the deck watching the neighborhood. It’s always fun to meet all the dogs who walk by.

As far as local gems, there are many great local restaurants. My fiance, Kimberly, and I like to visit the Vierling or Crow’s Nest at the Landmark.

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?
The people. There is a great team here that cares about what they do. I especially take pleasure in working with my crew — they make the work fun and efficient. And let’s not forget the patients — you meet all sorts of people and hear great stories.