New Surgical Technologist program creates pathway into healthcare field

News Release for Immediate Release

Poulsbo, Wash. - Olympic College’s latest academic program offers a new pathway into the healthcare field as a Surgical Technologist. The program received final approval and from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities in late February and is now recruiting students for Fall 2025.

This program is part of Healthcare Expansion Project in collaboration with Kitsap County Commissioners and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, which contributed $6 million and $2.5 million, respectively, towards the project. Surgical Technologist is the third program launched under the first phase of the healthcare expansion. Phlebotomy and Corpsman/Medic to Practical Nurse programs were launched in 2024 and are being taught at the Bremerton Campus. Olympic College is currently planning proposals for Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs.

“The approval of the Surgical Technologist program marks yet another important milestone in our efforts to increase access to healthcare education in Kitsap County,” said Olympic College President Marty Cavalluzzi. “Students in this program will have access to world-class instruction and facilities when it launches in September 2025.”

The Surgical Technologist program will be located at the Poulsbo Campus which is currently being remodeled into a new home for healthcare programs situated in North Kitsap. The remodeled facility will feature a 3,000 square-foot skills lab with four stations where students will gain hands-on instruction. The Surgical Technologist Associate of Applied Science program prepares graduates for the national certification exam which is required for entry into this field. The college broke ground on the remodel at a ceremony on Feb. 14, 2025. Construction is expected to be completed by September 2025.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics the Surgical Technologist field is experiencing growth of 6 – 8% which is faster than the national average. Workers in Washington earn on average $70,250/year. The Surgical Technologist program takes six quarters to complete and is taught using a hybrid approach that combines in-person and online instruction.

“We are committed to providing students with an exceptional educational experience, that blends rigorous academic instruction with hands-on clinical training,” says Olympic College Dean of Nursing Dr. Alecia Nye. “Our goal is to equip future surgical technologists with the essential skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in healthcare.”

The Olympic College Healthcare Expansion project is made possible thanks to generous funding contributions from Kitsap County Commissioners and Virgina Mason Franciscan Health, which contributed $6 million and $2.5 million respectively.

Visit our website, to find our more about the Surgical Technologist Associate of Applied Science – Transfer program.