CONMED’s Buffalo Filter Smoke Portfolio is clearing the air with our comprehensive and innovative smoke evacuation technology. Hear from Ryan W., former CONMED supply chain intern and now Regional Sales Associate within our Advanced Surgical division, about his experience converting from an intern to a full-time employee and working in this exciting new Smoke Technology sales role at CONMED!

Starting as an intern, how did CONMED’s internship program prepare you for your role today?
I initially started as an intern in a supply chain role at CONMED, then decided to take a full-time position in sales, so the technical skills I’m using now are quite different. Besides that, my internship prepared me in every way towards being a successful professional. I developed the communication skills necessary for working effectively within a team and learning how to utilize the tools and resources that CONMED has provided to overcome challenges.

What is it like working as a Regional Sales Associate focused on smoke technology?
Working with CONMED’s smoke technology portfolio within the Advanced Surgical division is a unique and very exciting opportunity. Being among the first class of smoke technology representatives, I love the idea of being able to define and set expectations of what someone in this position can achieve.

What do you like most about your career in sales?
There are a lot of things about sales that I’ve come to love. The large amount of autonomy makes it so that you can work in a way that’s most effective for you. There are no limits on what you can achieve, and every day is full of opportunities to learn and grow.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of during your time at CONMED?
I’m proud of myself for taking this opportunity and choosing to go down this career path out of college. And so far, I’m proud of how much I’ve been able to learn and develop in my short amount of time in this new role.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in marketing and sales?
The best advice I could give someone was given to me by someone else: get comfortable being uncomfortable and do something every day that scares you. Also, have clear, written goals for yourself and hold yourself accountable for achieving them.

Any fun facts that you would like to share?
My perception of ‘sales’ before I took this job was entirely based on The Office, and this role couldn’t be any further from that of the show. The work environment at CONMED is 100 times better than sitting at a desk and having Michael Scott as your boss.

Looking to take your career to the next level in sales? Join our talent community and visit our careers website to stay up to date on sales opportunities and learn more about what it’s like to work at CONMED!

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.