The college has received a WV Advance Grant to help the state combat the current shortage of surgical technologists and create pathways to accessible education.
Pierpont Community and Technical College has received a $300,000 WV Advance Grant from the West Virginia Community & Technical College System. The grant will allow the college to establish a new Surgical Technology workforce training program to help alleviate the current workforce shortage of surgical technologists by creating accessible education pathways.
According to an article on Pierpont Community and Technical College’s website, Dr. Michael Waide, who is the interim president of the college, was quoted as saying, “This investment trains skilled surgical technologists for hospitals that need talent now. The program expands opportunity for students, supports local employers, and strengthens access to quality care in North Central West Virginia. Pierpont is proud to work side by side with industry partners to grow talent and build a strong healthcare future for our communities.”
The new program will provide a pathway into the college’s Health Science Associate of Applied Science degree program for individuals who wish to continue their healthcare training and education. The Surgical Technology workforce training program will include hands-on instruction and will prepare those who complete the program for the certification exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting and the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management.
David Beighley, who is the Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, said, “This training is a natural extension of Pierpont’s commitment to workforce-driven education. By integrating advanced simulation technology with clinical partnerships, we’re creating an academic experience that mirrors the realities of modern healthcare. Students won’t just learn surgical procedures; they’ll develop critical thinking and adaptability that employers value. Graduates will enter the workforce with nationally recognized credentials and the skills to make an immediate impact on patient care.”
Amy Cunningham, the Dean of Pierpont’s School of Health Sciences, noted, “From accelerated classroom instruction to hands-on training with advanced surgical simulators, every component is built for real-world application. Students will gain clinical experience at regional healthcare facilities, benefit from flexible scheduling options, and have clear opportunities for career advancement, including pathways for LPNs, EMTs, and other healthcare professionals ready to take the next step.”
The school expects it will graduate around 36 students from the Surgical Technology workforce training program each year. The initiative is being supported by the college’s partners, including the Region VI Workforce Development Board, the Monongalia County Technical Education Center, and the Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers.
For more information about Pierpont Community and Technical College, visit the school’s website.