EKG technician training schools offer training in a particular branch of cardiovascular medicine. Cardiovascular technicians work with physicians to treat heart and blood vessel conditions. EKG technicians (also known as cardiographic technicians) use electrocardiograms (EKG) and other methods to obtain clinical data for use by physicians. While existing healthcare workers may train on the job to be an EKG technician, completing a program at EKG technician training schools will help your employment and salary outlook. A two-year associate degree program will give you both a full range of technical know how, as well as the benefits of clinical experience. Aside from general medical education you will learn how to use Electrocardiograms (electrical readings of heart activity), Holter monitoring (taking EKG readings over a period of several hours), and Stress testing (taking EKG readings while the patient jogs on a treadmill). The expertise in Holter monitoring and stress testing EKG technician training schools will give you will be especially helpful in finding a good job and developing your career. Although cardiovascular technology is a high growth area, EKG technicians with only basic skills will not find the same level of job growth. Existing health workers can be trained to perform basic EKGs. In order to maximize your employment prospects you will need the advanced technology skills, which you will gain from an EKG technician training schools program. This is a small area of employment at any time; so having the formal training to make yourself stand out should be seen as essential.