After two years of not offering the program, LBW Community College will reopen the surgical technology program at its Opp campus this fall.

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

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for trained surgical techs 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,” Riedel said.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary is $45,010.

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 catherization labs, organ and tissue procurement and 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,” Riedel said. “It is a rewarding field in health care and provides the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of patients.”

Renee LeMaire, marketing and public relations director for the college, said there are 18 slots open for the program and four classes will be offered in the fall.

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

Among the courses needed are “Principles of Surgical Technology,” “Applied Surgical Techniques,” “Surgical Anatomy and Pathophysiology,” “Pharmacology for the Surgical Technologist,” “Surgical Procedures,” “Surgical Practicum I and II,” “Role Transition in Surgical Technology.”

A minimum grade of 75 is required for progression to the next surgical technology courses in the program’s required course sequence.

Fall semester starts Aug. 17.

Call 334-493-5320 for more info.