09/11/2025

Celebrating 50 Years of Dedication: Danilo Concepcion’s Career Reflection

This year marks an extraordinary milestone for Danilo (Dani) Concepcion, one of our most respected dialysis technologists, 50 years of service in the field. What began as a job opportunity in 1975 has grown into a lifelong calling, filled with purpose, transformation, and impact. While Dani is retiring this week from Providence St. Joseph Hospital, he will continue to be active in the dialysis arena.

From Military to Medicine

After leaving the military after serving for three years as a medical corpsman, Dani found that his training wasn’t recognized in civilian life. With no prior knowledge of dialysis, he answered a job ad seeking a dialysis practitioner with medical experience. Dani was hired on the spot—June 23, 1975—and began a journey that would shape not only his career but the lives of countless patients and colleagues.

A Humble Beginning

His first day was overwhelming. “I was a deer in the headlights,” he recalls. With limited automation, the responsibility for safety and efficient treatment fell heavily on the technician. But it was this challenge that laid the foundation for a career built on resilience and growth.

Witnessing a Revolution in Care

Over five decades, he has seen dialysis technology evolve dramatically. From manual processes to sophisticated automation, the focus on patient safety has never been stronger. He notes that while machines have become more advanced, the technician remains at the heart of patient care.

Proud Moments and Personal Growth

Among his proudest accomplishments is his long-standing involvement with NANT. Through NANT, he found a professional home, serving on numerous committees and representing technicians at the highest levels—including AAMI, ASN, CDC, NKF, and RHA. He is often the only technician in the room, ensuring their voice is heard.

A transformative moment came with the loss of a patient he deeply admired. “It changed everything,” he says. “It made me realize this isn’t just a job—it’s a profession. The person at the end of the needle could be your parent.”

Looking Ahead

He sees a future of even greater automation, expanded home dialysis, and promising treatments that may slow the progression of kidney disease. Yet, he believes ESKD will remain a reality—and so will the need for dedicated, skilled technicians.

Words of Wisdom

To those just entering the field, his advice is simple but powerful: “Learn as much as you can. Be involved. Be engaged. Be challenged. This is not just a job—it’s a profession to be proud of.”

A Life Shaped by Service

This career has shaped him into someone approachable, collaborative, and deeply invested in the dialysis community. He credits mentors like Tony Messana and Dr. Dominick Gentile, and values the leadership of his current director, who shows genuine care for her team.

Legacy and Retirement

Though he won’t miss the 3 a.m. system starts, he will miss everything else—especially the people. In retirement, he plans to continue consulting, helping new facilities prepare for accreditation and surveys, and staying active on industry committees.

His parting message to the next generation:
“Embrace your honorable profession.”

Dani served as a medical corpsman in the U.S. Navy's Hospital Corps for three years on USS Benjamin Stoddert, DDG22, patrolling the Vietnam coast before entering dialysis.