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OCTC Surgical Technology Program Achieves Remarkable 11-Year Streak of 100% Pass Rates

OCTC graduates continue perfect record on national certification exam

by Bernie Hale

Owensboro, KY (06/30/2025) — Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC) proudly announces that graduates from its Associate in Applied Science Surgical Technology program have maintained an unprecedented 100% first-time pass rate on the national certification exam for eleven consecutive years.

This exceptional achievement reflects the program's commitment to excellence in preparing skilled healthcare professionals for today's demanding surgical environments. The intensive 10-month program equips students with comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience essential for success in operating room settings.

"Eleven consecutive years with a 100% first-time pass rate represents an extraordinary standard of excellence," said OCTC President Dr. Scott Williams. "This remarkable record demonstrates both the exceptional quality of our program and the dedication of our faculty and students. We're incredibly proud of this achievement and what it represents for our graduates' career readiness."

Growing Career Opportunities

Surgical technologists serve as vital members of surgical teams, working alongside surgeons, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals. These skilled technicians manage critical responsibilities, including preparing operating rooms, sterilizing instruments, organizing medications, and maintaining equipment throughout surgical procedures.

"The demand for qualified surgical technologists continues to grow significantly in today's healthcare landscape," explained Program Coordinator Zara Basham. "Our graduates enter a field with tremendous opportunities and excellent career prospects. Surgical Technology offers a direct pathway into healthcare with meaningful work and strong job security."

Program Excellence and Certification

Upon program completion, graduates are fully prepared to take the national professional certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). OCTC's consistent 100% pass rate demonstrates the program's effectiveness in preparing students for this critical milestone in their professional journey.

Due to the program's rigorous standards and hands-on training requirements, enrollment is limited to ensure optimal learning experiences and individualized attention for each student.

Application Information

The Surgical Technology program will begin accepting applications for the August 2026 cohort in February 2026. Prospective students interested in this rewarding healthcare career are encouraged to contact Program Coordinator Zara Basham early to learn about admission requirements and application procedures.

Contact Information:

Email: zara.basham@kctcs.edu

Phone: 270-686-4650

For additional information about OCTC's Surgical Technology program and other healthcare career opportunities, visit the college website (www.owensboro.kctcs.edu and select Education & Training) or contact the START Center at OCTC.STARTCenter@kctcs.edu.

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Owensboro Community & Technical College is one of the sixteen community and technical colleges that make up the Kentucky Community & Technical College System. OCTC serves the KY counties of Daviess, Hancock, Ohio and McLean. OCTC has three campuses in Daviess County and a Center and Annex in Hancock County. OCTC strives to serve the communities in the service area by providing associate degree education for transfer, state of the art technical education for students focusing on entering the workforce, customized business and industry solutions through the Workforce Solutions division, and adult education and business and industry testing through the SkillTrain unit.

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The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is the Commonwealth's largest postsecondary institution with 16 colleges and more than 70 campuses. We also are Kentucky's largest provider of workforce training and online education. Through partnerships with business and industry, we align our programs to meet the needs of local employers. We help students fulfill their dreams of creating a better life through programs that lead directly to jobs or help them transfer to one of our four-year partners.

Connect with OCTC: Owensboro.kctcs | Facebook.com/owensboroctc | Twitter@OCTC_Tweets | Instagram OwensboroCTC

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