Surgical technologists from across California attended their annual state conference this October, which was held at American Career College-Ontario.
Approximately 150 guests attended the one-day Association of Surgical Technologists event, which featured industry speakers and demonstrations of some of the latest equipment used in training and in the operating room. Prior to the conference, Surgical Science representative Becky Larson set up her "Minimal Invasive Simulator" early so ACC students could receive the same presentation she would deliver during the AST event.
During the conference, ACC-Ontario surgical technology program director David Alfaro and ACC-Ontario education director Tom Bustamante were recognized for their support of surgical technology in education and in the professional field.
"Having the conference here involves two things," Alfaro said. "No. 1, we're supporting the profession. No. 2, we're supporting the education of surgical technologists and, even more so, by hosting the conference at our beautiful campus here in Ontario, we're bringing our current students one step closer to the people and organizations they will encounter once they enter the workforce."
ACC-Los Angeles surgical technology graduates Andrea Pereira and Andrew Garcia said they found attending the conference "very informational" and really enjoyed the opportunity to check out the power instruments.
"This would have been cool to have at the school when we went there," Garcia said while removing his virtual patient's gallbladder. "It's very realistic. It would have helped out a lot."
Since graduating in April 2019, the pair have been working in the field and said they enjoy their new careers.
"It's rewarding," Pereira said. "It was worth all the time and the struggle and the instructors will help you get to where you need to be."
