Hey there! I’m Michelle Muench, a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT) here at Mint Medical. I specialize in all things blood flow—using ultrasound to help diagnose and monitor vascular conditions. Basically, I help keep things moving and people walking… literally.
How long have you worked at the company?
I’ve been part of this amazing team for about a year and a half now—and in that time, I’ve been exposed to numerous unique vascular scans and unusual cases, learned a lot, built a great rapport with patients and colleagues, and found a truly supportive place to grow as a healthcare professional.
What has your career journey been like?
My path to sonography wasn’t exactly traditional—and I love that. I started in the world of kinesiology and physical education at Cal Poly SLO, then dove into the international adventure travel industry for over 20 years— (yep, leading groups hiking and biking all over Latin America and Europe!). But when the pandemic hit, I saw an opportunity to pivot into healthcare—something I’d always been drawn to combining my love for people, learning, and service into a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Now, I’m an RVT and RDMS, passionate about vascular imaging and patient care, and bringing a lot of my people skills and global perspective into this field.
What is your day like?
Every day brings something new—whether it’s a challenging case, a complex scan, or a meaningful moment with a patient. I might be scanning a full arterial triple study one minute and troubleshooting a challenging venous reflux case the next. My mornings usually start with a strong cup of coffee and a full schedule of vascular exams. Throughout the day, I work closely with our lead sonographer, administrative team, and vascular surgeons and nurse practitioners to deliver accurate, high-quality imaging that helps drive great care. It’s fast-paced, focused, and very rewarding.
Do you have any big wins to share?
Definitely. One that really stands out was when I identified a critical aortic dissection. I was the first to catch it during an emergency room scan ordered for a different organ, and we quickly got the care team and vascular specialists involved. The patient ended up needing immediate endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) surgery—and it likely saved their life. It was one of those powerful moments where you realize, “Wow, this is why I do this.”
Another thing I love is being part of our patients’ ongoing care—especially those going through treatments like radiofrequency ablations. Watching someone go from chronic leg pain to walking comfortably again, and knowing you helped along the way, is so fulfilling.
Finally, being part of small process improvements—like refining workflows to help reduce sonographer strain and improving efficiencies, as well as being a preceptor to sonography students and teaching the next generation—these all feel like big wins to me.
How would you describe the company culture?
It’s collaborative, inclusive, and just the right mix of professional and fun. People truly care—not just about the patients but there is a strong sense that we’re all in it together—and we’ve got each other’s backs. We laugh, we learn, and we show up for one another. It’s a place where your voice matters, and your growth is encouraged.
What’s the best thing about working here?
Hands down, it’s the people—and the way we’re encouraged to keep growing. One of my favorite things is our monthly quality meetings. Our manager always makes a point to give kudos to team members, which honestly feels so good—it reminds you that your work is seen and appreciated. We also review interesting case studies together with our medical team, which keeps us sharp and constantly thinking critically. It’s not just about going through the motions—it’s about becoming the best vascular technologists we can be and doing it as a team.
How would you describe your coworkers and managers?
They’re incredible. My coworkers are smart, dedicated, and always willing to help. We’ve got great camaraderie, and we really respect each other’s strengths. Our manager leads with heart—balancing high standards with genuine support and recognition. That kind of leadership makes all the difference and keeps us inspired.
What is your team like?
We’re a solid, hardworking crew with great chemistry and a sense of humor as well. We all bring different strengths to the table, and it just works. We help each other out, bounce ideas off one another, and celebrate the little victories together—like finally getting a tough patient to hold still for that perfect image.
How has the organization helped with your professional development?
Mint Medical really walks the talk when it comes to supporting growth. They support and encourage us to be members of the professional SVU (Society of Vascular Ultrasound) that offer ongoing educational resources and continuing education opportunities as well as getting involved in the broader medical imaging community, I’ve had the space and support to grow not just as a tech, but as a leader by being a mentor and preceptor to multiple sonography students, this has definitely expanded my professional growth. I’ve even been able to bring some of my outside leadership experience—like my roles with CSRT and ASRT—into the conversation, by giving a presentation about contrast enhanced ultrasound in vascular imaging to our medical team, which was incredibly rewarding.
