Columbus State Community College forms partnership with Ohio State University to bolster its Surgical Technology program

Columbus State Community College has partnered with Ohio State University to help feed the ever-increasing demand for operating room staff like surgical technologists, who assist surgeons during operations. The partnership involves The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center offering use of its Ohio State Jameson Crane Sports Medicine Institute Surgical Skills Lab to Columbus State Community College students in the Surgical Technology program.

According to an article on Columbus State Community College’s website, Kirk Dickerson, EdD, who serves as the chief healthcare strategist at Columbus State Community College, discussed what the partnership will provide to students. He was quoted as saying, “Offering our curriculum at a leading state-of-the-art healthcare provider in our region is an innovative way to expand our educational reach, at a time when we have committed to more than double Columbus State’s contributions to our community healthcare workforce. This is a great opportunity for our students to learn where there is innovative research and technology and will enhance their careers in this critical supportive allied health discipline.”

The Surgical Technology program at Columbus State gives students a foundational understanding of surgical procedures and equipment, the human body, medical terminology, and caring for patients. By giving students the opportunity to learn in a high-tech laboratory at Ohio State University, students will be learning to use equipment like what they will encounter in the workplace. The school expects that this benefit will increase student enrollment in the Surgical Technology program.

Sarah Sherer, who serves as the senior associate vice president and chief human resources officer at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, explained the benefits the partnership will have for Ohio State University, saying, “Surgical technologists are vital members of the surgery team and our overall workforce. This unique employer-educator partnership will foster opportunity and create additional pathways of professionals entering this high demand field and help Ohio State meet our hiring needs.”

To apply to begin taking classes in Fall 2024, an application must be submitted by April 1. 

For more information about Columbus State Community College, visit the school’s website.