LBW Community College reopens the surgical technology career training program in Opp this fall to help meet area needs.

“We are reactivating the surgical technology program to help meet the growing need for a trained workforce in this vital healthcare field,” said LBWCC President Dr. Herb Riedel.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for trained surgical technologists is anticipated to grow 30 percent through 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations.

“We are hearing more and more about the need for this type of training throughout our region of the country, and are pleased to once again provide this opportunity for students.”

Surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations. They are employed in hospital operating rooms, ambulatory surgery centers, delivery rooms, cast rooms, emergency departments, cardiac catheterization laboratories, organ/tissue procurement/preservation banks, central supply departments, and by surgeons or other physicians, including veterinarians and dentists.

“This training allows a career as one of the key personnel during surgical procedures. It is a rewarding field in healthcare and provides the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients,” said Riedel.

The certificate program at LBWCC is a 29 credit hour program and can be completed in a 12-month period, comprising three semesters.

If interested in the surgical technology program, call 334-493-5320 for more information. Fall semester begins Aug. 17.