Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology has transformed the work of healthcare professionals and the patients they serve. For these machines to function properly, skilled engineers and business leaders work tirelessly to deliver and maintain them. These efforts, along with a dedication to leadership and unwavering perseverance, have defined the career of Chavis C. Thomas, MBA.
Thomas’s accomplishments in electrical engineering and MRI coil devices have earned him a place in the prestigious Marquis Who’s Who list. Today, he and his team at MRI Coil Guru provide services to national and international medical device companies and healthcare facilities.
Building the Foundations for Success
Thomas began his career journey with service in the U.S. Air Force from 2002 to 2004. His experiences during this time shaped his belief in the power of collective teamwork and instilled a strong determination to succeed. “As a veteran — because that’s a big part of my life — I know teamwork and commitment to your mission is the key to success,” he states.
Upon his honorable discharge from the service, Thomas proceeded to build his engineering career. He obtained a position as a service engineer for GE Healthcare from 2005 to 2008. He then transitioned to the role of an MRI coil repair technician for Medical Imagining Solutions, a position he held from 2009 to 2011. This early exposure to MRI coil devices would prove instrumental to his career path.
Thomas continued developing his engineering knowledge and skills through higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in technical management from DeVry University in 2010 and then a Master of Business Administration in project management from the same institution in 2011.
Obtaining Expertise in MRI Coil Technology
Thomas continued working in the MRI coil engineering field, moving into engineering leadership positions at MRIcoilrepair.com, Magnaserv Inc., and BC Technical Inc.
Using his leadership skills and technical acumen, Thomas co-founded MAK Coil Services LLC in 2016, acting as the company’s technical director. His efforts were instrumental to the success of the company, growing the company’s reputation for excellent service within the industry.
Providing Excellent MRI Services
In 2017, Thomas established MRI Coil Guru, a medical services company that specializes in providing clients with advanced MRI coil repairs and services. His duties as the company’s managing partner involve helping clients manage repair costs, overseeing the company’s daily operations, and facilitating the engineering and repair of MRI devices.
Thomas leads his team at MRI Coil Guru in exceeding the needs of their national and international clients. His experience across the span of more than 15 years in the field of MRI technology has given him insights into how this equipment transitions from generation to generation. His current focus is on new developments in an all-in-one coil, which many large manufacturers are adopting.
“We are able to service the newer equipment that is just being released,” Thomas asserts. “In the past month or two, we have had many success stories where we have saved clients hundreds of thousands of dollars by expertly servicing their newer equipment.”
Sharing Success in Electrical Engineering and MRI Repair
In addition to his career successes, Thomas enjoys sharing his expertise in MRI service and repair. Traveling across the country, he provides training to companies similar to his own and helps them develop and implement industry best practices. He continues to contribute to the industry by developing specialized training courses on MRI coil repair for Southwest Medical Resources.
For other professionals aspiring to achieve career success, Thomas emphasizes the importance of dedication and perseverance. “Even when things are unsettled, and you don’t know what the future holds, just know that you are blessed with certain gifts,” he states. “And if you exemplify those gifts, then your path will become clear.”
