JACKSON, Mich. – Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists (MSA) is encouraging high school students to explore career paths in anesthesiology as the need for physician anesthesiologists in Michigan is growing.  

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% employment growth for anesthesiologists by 2033, resulting in more than 1,500 new jobs. There is also currently a very high nationwide demand for anesthesia services. In order to keep up with the current and future demand, available anesthesiology residency positions have increased by 40% in the last ten years.

“Anesthesiology is a deeply rewarding career,” said Dr. Matt Dellaquila, president of MSA. “We are the stewards of safety in an operating room. Extensive training and expertise using medications and hands-on procedures allow us to keep the patient safe during the most vulnerable time of their lives. In creating more future anesthesiologists, we can further MSA’s mission to protect patients by advocating for anesthesiologist-led care.”

Channing Hull, a student at Jackson College, has been interested in an anesthesiology career since high school. He graduated in 2026. He also works as an anesthesia technician at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital. 

“Seeing the field firsthand made me want to continue pursuing anesthesiology as a career,” Hull said. “My mom works in healthcare and is one of my biggest inspirations. Seeing her dedication to helping others strongly influenced my interest in the medical field. I also connected with Dr. Dellaquila in my senior year of high school, giving me an understanding of the anesthesia field and what an exciting career in anesthesia can look like.”

Hull plans to continue studying at Jackson College before transferring to a four-year university. He also plans to continue working as an anesthesia technician to gain experience, expand his knowledge, and prepare for his future career in healthcare. 

“It is a long process to become a physician anesthesiologist that requires dedication and patience, but the work is worth it,” Hull said. “I am constantly learning and have the chance to make a real difference in patients’ lives. I encourage anyone interested in the career to start preparing early, work hard and connect with professionals working your chosen career.”

MSA also launched its Medical Student Section this year, an initiative to engage future anesthesiologists early in their education during medical school. The Medical Student Section helps attract medical students to the specialty of anesthesiology, foster early professional engagement and support student-centered initiatives within MSA.

“The support and dedicated space within MSA are a meaningful and appreciated opportunity,” said Zack Merhavy, a recent medical school graduate and former chair of MSA Medical Student Section. “We can connect with physician anesthesiologists, learn more about the specialty and share our experience and ideas as students. I encourage anyone interested in a career in anesthesiology to get connected with MSA at a young age.” 

There are other opportunities for students interested in anesthesia through MSA and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) including committee participation, poster and abstract presentations, mentoring resources, webinars and events, and continuing medical education activities.

MSA also has a list of medical schools and anesthesiology residency programs available in Michigan available on its website.

To learn more about careers and programs in anesthesia, visit mymsahq.org/education-training.