Last spring College of Western Idaho (CWI) welcomed its first cohort of Surgical First Assistant (SFA) students, joining only thirteen other programs throughout the country that offer Surgical Technologists an opportunity to advance their skillset and careers in the operating room.
As they approach the end of their final semester, CWI’s SFA students are preparing to graduate and sit for the national Certified Surgical First Assistant Exam.
“I’ve always wanted to develop my skills and advance my career, so once I found out CWI had a Surgical First Assistant program I applied right away,” said Vanessa Macdonagh, a current SFA student.
The Surgical First Assistant program features a hybrid format over three semesters, allowing students to fulfill their didactic coursework online while gaining hands-on experience through skills labs and clinical rotations. Balancing a full-time job and as a mother of two, Macdonagh credits the program’s online coursework option as key to managing her busy schedule.
“I highly recommend this program for any Certified Surgical Technologist looking to advance their career. It's affordable and offers flexibility for your schedule,” added fellow student Jennifer Gabiola.
Rob Blackston, CWI’s Surgical First Assistant Program Director, is preparing to review applications for the program’s second cohort. “As one of the few Surgical First Assistant programs in the western U.S. and one of the only primarily online offerings, we provide an exceptional option for aspiring surgical assistants. It’s exciting to contribute to the advancement of healthcare both locally in Idaho and nationally,” Blackston stated.
Applications for the 2025 Spring cohort will be accepted through Friday, Dec. 13. For more information on the application process, please visit CWI’s Surgical First Assistant program page.
