WDT offers free Surgical Technology exploration course

Western Dakota Tech is offering a free exploration course to anyone interested in learning more about Surgical Technology.

The class will meet from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on four Tuesdays in March: March 1, March 8, March 22, and March 29. The class will meet at WDT.

Students will learn about careers in Surgical Technology and WDT’s Surgical Tech program, take part in hands-on activities, and find out what it’s really like to work in the operating room.

“This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning what Surgical Technology is all about,” program director Rob Frey said.

Anyone who attends the class and applies for admission to WDT’s 11-month diploma program in Surgical Technology program will receive additional consideration for admission. Admission to the surgical tech program is competitive, and WDT receives more applications than there are seats available.

Surgical technologists are involved in all aspects of a patient's care while in surgery. Surgical technologists assist surgeons, nurses, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals in surgery. Surgical technologists gather equipment needed for surgery, organize the operating room’s sterile field, pass instruments to the surgeon, predict and respond to the surgeon’s needs, apply dressings, and perform many other critical tasks.

Surgical technology is one of the fastest growing professions in the country. It is projected to grow faster than the average of all other occupations through the year 2012. As baby boomers approach retirement age, the volume of surgery will increase exponentially, creating even more career opportunities.

Interested students can learn more about the free exploration class and register by calling program director Rob Frey at (605) 718-2907. Students also can register online at www.wdt.edu.

Western Dakota Tech is the only technical institute that serves the western South Dakota region. WDT offers more than 20 programs in a variety of fields, including Business and Computers, Construction Trades, Health Services, Legal and Public Services, Manufacturing and Mechanical Trades, and Science and Technology. More than 94 percent of WDT’s most recent graduates are either working or continuing their education, and more than 82 percent of those placed in careers are working in South Dakota. 

WDT faculty, staff, and administration focus their efforts on helping students gain the skills and experiences they need to succeed. Through hands-on learning, internships, and industry partnerships, WDT students graduate ready to make a real and immediate contribution to their employers and to their communities.

For information about WDT, contact WDT at (800) 544-8765, (605) 718-2400, or admissions@wdt.edu. Visit WDT on the web at www.wdt.edu.