Our Mission & History

25 Years of Excellence in Surgical Technology

Our Mission

The California State Assembly of the Association of Surgical Technologists is dedicated to promoting excellence in surgical patient care through the education, professional development, and advocacy of surgical technologists across California.

We strive to:

  • Advance the profession of surgical technology through quality education and continuing professional development
  • Advocate for the recognition and advancement of surgical technologists at the state and local levels
  • Provide networking opportunities that foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals
  • Support the highest standards of patient care and safety in surgical settings
  • Promote professional excellence through certification and continuing education

Our History

"For 25 years, CA-SA of AST has been the voice of California's surgical technologists. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to advancing our profession through education, advocacy, and community. Together, we're not just building careers—we're improving patient care across California."

— Board Chair, CA-SA of AST

Key Achievements

🎓

Student Outreach Expansion

Developed comprehensive mentorship programs connecting students with experienced professionals, helping hundreds successfully transition into the surgical technology field.

🌟

Statewide CE Events

Launched regular continuing education events across Northern, Southern, and Central California, making professional development accessible to all members.

🤝

Strategic Partnerships

Established partnerships with leading hospitals, surgical centers, and educational institutions to advance surgical technology standards throughout California.

📋

Legislative Success

Successfully advocated for legislation protecting and advancing surgical technologist recognition and professional standards in California healthcare.

Our Story in Photos

Then: Early Years (2000-2010)

First Conference 2005

Founding Members

Early Workshops

Now: Recent Years (2015-2025)

2024 Annual Conference

Student Mentorship Program

Legislative Advocacy Day

Photo placeholders - actual event photos to be added by CA-SA team

Our Journey

2000

Foundation

CA-SA of AST was founded by a group of dedicated surgical technologists who recognized the need for a state-level organization to represent and support the profession in California.

2005

First Annual Conference

We hosted our first annual conference, bringing together surgical technologists from across California for education and networking.

2010

Legislative Advocacy Begins

Launched our legislative advocacy program to represent the interests of surgical technologists in state policy discussions.

2015

Expanded Programs

Introduced comprehensive continuing education resources and certification preparation workshops.

2020

Virtual Engagement

Adapted to changing times by offering virtual events and online resources while maintaining our commitment to member service.

2026

25th Anniversary

Celebrating 25 years of serving California's surgical technology community with renewed commitment to excellence and innovation.

Our Values

Excellence

We are committed to the highest standards in surgical technology education and practice.

Integrity

We conduct ourselves with honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all our endeavors.

Collaboration

We believe in the power of working together to advance our profession and support our members.

Innovation

We embrace new ideas and approaches to better serve our members and the profession.

Advocacy

We actively promote and protect the interests of surgical technologists and the patients they serve.

Community

We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where all members can thrive professionally.