Surgical technologists, or surgical techs, work alongside doctors and nurses in the operating room. These highly trained professionals help prepare patients and operating rooms for surgery, and serve as an extra set of hands during surgical procedures. Surgical technology is an in-demand career field that offers many advantages. Let’s take a closer look at a few of them.
Less school and fewer expenses
Some medical professions require four or more years of schooling before you can even begin working in your field. It only takes a two-year associate degree to get hired as a surgical tech, which means you’ll spend less time paying tuition and more time making money on the job.
A healthy employment outlook
Job security is one of the most attractive benefits of any career in the healthcare field, and surgical technology is no exception. Employment opportunities for surgical technologists are expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate over the next decade. This increased demand is anticipated to create numerous new surgical tech positions, offering a promising career path for those entering the field.
Above-average earning potential
Surgical technologists in the U.S. enjoy strong earning potential, often commanding competitive salaries that are impressive given the relatively short time required to enter the field. When you consider how quickly you can complete the necessary education and training to become a surgical technologist, the financial rewards make this career path especially attractive.
Bring your skills with you wherever you go
We can’t always control where life takes us. Luckily, as a surgical tech, you’ll have a career that can travel with ease. Earning a certified surgical technologist (CST) credential in addition to your associate degree will allow you to find work at hospitals and surgical centers pretty much anywhere in the country.
Opportunities for advancement
Looking for a career with plenty of room to grow? The experience you’ll gain in the operating room can be a great foundation for future career development. Work your way up the ladder to surgical first assistant, branch out into hospital administrative work or even go back to school and earn a nursing degree. With a degree in surgical technology, you’ll have the freedom to keep your options open and your ambitions high
You’ll never be bored
The operating room is a fast-paced, hands-on environment that offers an endless array of new and interesting challenges. Not to mention you’ll have the opportunity to work with some of the most advanced surgical technology around, including laser, robotic and fiber optic equipment.
You’ll make a difference every day
This one may seem obvious, but it’s true. As a surgical tech, you’ll be a vital member of a life- changing, life-saving team. Thanks to you, surgeries will be conducted as safely and successfully as possible, with optimal outcomes for the patients under your care. It doesn’t get much more satisfying than that!
I want to be a surgical technologist. Where do I start?
If you’re interested in studying surgical technology, Baker College is here for you. Our two-year, fully accredited degree program will prepare you to pass the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist exam and launch a rewarding healthcare career.
Ready to take your next step toward a brighter future? Click here to learn more about the surgical technology associate degree program at Baker College.