LIVE From South College - I'm A Surgical Technologist, What's Next? With Senior Program Chair, Chris Blevins & Madison Campbell

Already a Surgical Technologist?  Wondering what your next step is?Thinking About Surgical Technology?Exploring the Future of Surgical Technology Education with Chris Blevins! Join us as we dive into the new Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Post-Surgical Technology program at South College. Chris Blevins, senior chair of surgical technology, shares insights on this advanced pathway, industry trends, and the importance of passionate, well-trained surgical technologists.In this episode:Announcement and details of the new BS in Health Science, Post-Surgical Technology programThe evolution of surgical technology from certificate to doctoral levelsHow the program provides career growth for surgical technologists in management and educationIndustry demand for highly skilled surgical techs and specialization in robotics and complex proceduresThe importance of certifications and hands-on skills in surgical tech careersStrategies for working professionals balancing education and clinical workThe impact of technology and evolving procedures on surgical educationTips for aspiring surgical technologists: preparation, mindset, and key skillsPersonal updates from Chris Blevins, including her master's and doctorate pursuitsFun insights into what professionals carry in their “bag" in clinical settingsRealistic portrayals of surgical and emergency room environments in popular mediaTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and overview of South College's surgical technology programs 02:15 - Introducing the new Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Post-ST Program 04:33 - The pathway from associate degrees to doctoral programs in surgical tech 05:57 - Why certifications and hands-on experience are highly valued in hospitals 07:15 - Careers beyond the operating room: management, education, and PA pathways 09:44 - Industry trends: robotic surgery and high-tech procedures 11:56 - The importance of communication and specialization in patient care 14:08 - How the program supports working professionals—online offerings and flexibility 15:51 - Certification process and student eligibility for the BS program 17:46 - Personal journey: Chris’s educational achievements and leadership roles 20:22 - The value of flexible learning formats like Competency Based Education (CBE) 23:16 - Advice for prospective surgical tech students: what to know before starting 26:20 - The skills and qualities that make a successful surgical technologist 28:04 - Fun segment: What's in Chris Blevins' surgical bag? 30:15 - The role of outreach demonstrations in inspiring students 32:35 - Realistic media portrayals: Grey's Anatomy and The Pit 36:01 - The emotional resilience required in labor and delivery 37:55 - Supporting students' mental health and stress management 44:41 - The "Mary Poppins" bag: essentials for surgical techs and educators 50:16 - Tips for students: what to bring and avoid in clinical settings 53:07 - Guidelines on jewelry, piercings, and personal hygiene 55:17 - Maintaining confidentiality: cell phones and patient privacy 58:02 - What students should do more of to excel in surgical tech training 60:48 - The importance of rigor, process, and passion in surgical technology 62:25 - Final thoughts: join us at South College and explore your future in surgical techNote:If you're passionate about healthcare, technology, and education, this episode is your gateway to understanding how South College prepares surgical technologists for the future!Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction.