Candidate Questions and Responses

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing surgical technologists today and how can AST help?
Our most pressing issue is two-fold: limited state regulation and the lack of understanding about what a surgical technologist is, or does, in the O.R. If you asked people what a surgical technologist does, maybe one in 10 would know the answer. If you explained what we do, most would be surprised to learn we are not regulated. Increased public education about the profession and increased support to state assemblies to introduce and pass ST regulation are ways AST can help. AST has been successful in some states, but we can do better and need to make this a top priority.

How do you motivate surgical technologists to become involved in AST?
As an instructor, I explain AST membership benefits and share my own positive experiences with students. If we can motivate students to join and participate at the state level, new leaders and ideas will emerge to improve AST. I ask nonmembers why they haven’t joined. Many are misinformed about what AST offers and how membership benefits their practice. I use this opportunity to promote AST, show how easy it is to be involved, and strongly urge frustrated members to participate in state assemblies to solve issue(s). “If you not part of the solution, then you are part of the problem.”

How will your past experiences help you to function as a member of the Board of Directors?
As a practitioner, educator, state assembly leader, and Director, I gained valuable experience that helped me on the Board. Before being elected, I worked in most areas of employment for our membership and gained insight into how AST functions for the member and profession. Friends and leaders have given me advice and support to become a better individual and representative. I recognize the need to be prepared for Board meetings, and the importance of listening to all sides of an issue, while keeping individual members in mind. I continue to learn and will work to keep the member first in all my decisions.