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ICC Surgical Technology students receive degrees

ICC Surgical Technology Graduates Embark on Promising Careers in Healthcare

FULTON, Miss. – In a ceremony filled with pride and anticipation, a group of dedicated students from Itawamba Community College (ICC) recently celebrated the completion of their Surgical Technology program, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming essential members of operating room teams. The graduates, who have spent the past year honing their skills in a rigorous curriculum, received their degrees and certifications, ready to step into the fast-paced world of surgical healthcare. This achievement not only highlights the personal triumphs of these individuals but also underscores the vital role that community colleges like ICC play in addressing the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in Northeast Mississippi and beyond.

The Surgical Technology program at ICC is designed to prepare students for the critical responsibilities of assisting surgeons, nurses, and other medical personnel during surgical procedures. Over the course of the 12-month program, participants engage in a comprehensive blend of classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and hands-on clinical experiences. They learn essential techniques such as maintaining sterile environments, preparing surgical instruments, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team to ensure patient safety and efficient operations. The curriculum emphasizes anatomy, medical terminology, pharmacology, and aseptic techniques, all while adhering to the standards set by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This accreditation ensures that graduates are eligible to sit for the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), a credential that opens doors to employment in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and surgical centers across the country.

Among the recent graduates are several standout students whose stories reflect the diversity and determination within the program. For instance, Emily Johnson from Tupelo, who balanced her studies with part-time work and family responsibilities, described the experience as transformative. "I never imagined I'd be scrubbing in for surgeries, but the instructors at ICC made it possible. They pushed us to excel while providing the support we needed," Johnson shared during the ceremony. Similarly, Michael Thompson of Booneville, a former military veteran transitioning to civilian life, found the program's structure reminiscent of his service days. "The discipline and precision required in the OR are skills I already had, but ICC refined them into something career-ready," he noted. Other graduates include Sarah Davis from Saltillo, who plans to specialize in orthopedic surgery; Jacob Lee from Amory, eager to work in a high-volume hospital setting; and Amanda Roberts from Pontotoc, who highlighted the program's emphasis on teamwork. "We weren't just learning skills; we were building a network of professionals who will support each other in the field," Roberts said.

The graduation event, held at the ICC Fulton Campus auditorium, was a heartfelt affair attended by family members, faculty, and local healthcare representatives. Program director Dr. Lisa Henderson presided over the proceedings, emphasizing the graduates' readiness to contribute to an industry facing shortages. "These students have demonstrated exceptional competence and compassion. Surgical technologists are the unsung heroes of the operating room, and our graduates are poised to make a real difference in patient outcomes," Henderson stated. Guest speakers included representatives from North Mississippi Medical Center and other regional hospitals, who discussed the increasing need for certified surgical technologists amid rising surgical volumes and an aging population. According to industry insights, the demand for surgical technologists is projected to grow by 6% over the next decade, driven by advancements in medical technology and the expansion of ambulatory surgical centers.

What sets ICC's program apart is its commitment to real-world preparation. Students complete clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals, where they apply their knowledge in actual surgical settings under the supervision of experienced professionals. This experiential learning component is crucial, as it bridges the gap between theory and practice. For example, during their rotations, students might assist in procedures ranging from routine appendectomies to complex cardiovascular surgeries, gaining exposure to various specialties like neurosurgery, obstetrics, and general surgery. The program also incorporates training on the latest technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgery systems and advanced sterilization methods, ensuring graduates are adaptable to evolving healthcare environments.

Beyond technical skills, the curriculum fosters soft skills like communication, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making. Instructors stress the importance of maintaining composure under pressure, as surgical technologists often work in high-stakes situations where split-second decisions can impact lives. One graduate, Tyler Green from Fulton, recounted a memorable clinical experience: "During a rotation, we had an emergency case come in, and I had to quickly set up the instrument tray. It was intense, but it confirmed this is what I'm meant to do." Such anecdotes illustrate how the program not only equips students with credentials but also instills confidence and resilience.

The success of these graduates is a testament to ICC's broader mission as a cornerstone of education in Northeast Mississippi. Founded in 1948, Itawamba Community College serves over 7,000 students annually across its campuses in Fulton, Tupelo, and Belden, offering more than 70 academic and technical programs. The Surgical Technology program, in particular, has a strong track record, with high pass rates on certification exams and impressive job placement statistics. Many alumni secure positions immediately upon graduation, often at competitive salaries starting around $40,000 annually, with opportunities for advancement into roles like surgical first assistants or educators.

Looking ahead, these new surgical technologists are excited about their futures. Some, like Johnson, plan to pursue further education, such as a bachelor's degree in health sciences, while others aim to gain experience in specialized fields. Thompson, the veteran, expressed interest in working with trauma teams, drawing on his background. The group as a whole represents a diverse cross-section of the community, including first-generation college students, parents, and career changers, all united by a passion for healthcare.

In an era where healthcare systems are strained, the contributions of programs like ICC's Surgical Technology cannot be overstated. By producing qualified professionals, the college is helping to fill critical gaps in the workforce, ultimately improving access to quality surgical care in rural and urban areas alike. As these graduates don their scrubs and enter the operating rooms, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and spirit fostered at ICC, ready to support surgeons and save lives one procedure at a time.

This graduation is more than a ceremony; it's a launchpad for careers that will touch countless lives. For prospective students considering a path in healthcare, ICC's program offers a proven route to success, blending affordability, accessibility, and excellence. As Dr. Henderson aptly put it, "Our graduates aren't just entering a job; they're joining a profession that demands the best and rewards with purpose."

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Read the Full Daily Journal Article at:
[ https://www.djournal.com/icc-surgical-technology-students-receive-degrees/article_9a6813a2-1c32-4c52-a8b5-7288dace895e.html ]