Joe Conley, Spencer, was recently honored as Mid-State Technical College’s first Respiratory Therapist Outstanding Alumnus. He was recognized and presented with an award during a celebration of Respiratory Care Week at MSTC’s Marshfield campus.

Conley earned an associate degree in MSTC’s Respiratory Therapist program in 1999. A registered Respiratory Therapist, he also served as a clinical instructor in the program from 2000-2003. For many years Conley was employed at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital as a respiratory therapist and served on a number of hospital committees. Since 2005, Conley has been employed at Doctors Oxygen Service as a clinical consultant in anesthesia gas machines, capnography, non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring, PCA pump devices and ultrasound guided nerve blocks.

According to Barb Hughes, Respiratory Therapist Instructor, Conley remains dedicated to the field of respiratory care. “Joe’s history of professional excellence stems from his background as a respiratory therapist.”  In addition to the award from MSTC, Conley was a runner up in the 2002 Wisconsin Society for Respiratory Care Therapist of the Year Award. “As a registered therapist for the past ten years, Joe is very supportive of our program and the profession as a whole,” said Hughes. She added that Conley secured a cardiac monitor through his company and donated the equipment and other ventilator materials to the College.

The annual MSTC Respiratory Therapist Outstanding Alumnus Award will be presented each October. To be nominated for the award, individuals must be a graduate of the College’s Respiratory Therapist program, have worked at least three years in the field post-graduation and have made a significant contribution to the field or community.