A new opportunity exists for people with no healthcare experience to become certified for an in-demand position that’s crucial for patient safety.
Virginia Western Community College is enrolling now for a course in sterile processing, with the ability to receive provisional certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician. CRCSTs are responsible for decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, disassembling, packaging and sterilizing reusable surgical instruments or devices.
“As the Roanoke region’s healthcare, manufacturing, and biotech sectors continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals is soaring,” said Brittany Boltinghouse, Program Coordinator for Workforce Solutions at Virginia Western Community College. “A sterile processing certification class is a critical investment for our community, not only ensuring patient safety but also providing individuals with a direct pathway to a high-demand, stable career.”
Currently, Sterile Processing Technicians are among the most needed open positions at local hospital systems. Virginia Western is the only provider of this hands-on training within a two-hour radius, making it a vital resource for our region.
Those interested must register by Sept. 15 for the next class, which begins Sept. 29. Interest is already high, and career opportunities aren’t limited to hospitals. The rapidly growing biotechnology sector and advanced manufacturing facilities, such as those that manufacture medical devices, need technicians certified in sterile processing.