National Surgical Technologists Week

National Surgical Technologists Week timeline

1984

National Surgical Technologists Week began

The very first National Surgical Technologists Week was held.

1974

National recognition

The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting was formed.

1940s

Surgical techs were created

Surgical Technology became an official career path due to the demands of operating rooms in World War II.

1890

Keeping hands clean

Surgical gloves emerged on the scene.

1846

Numbing the pain

The first public use of anesthesia took place.

National Surgical Technologists Week FAQs

When is National Surgical Technologists Week?

In 2026, National Surgical Technologists Week runs from Monday, September 21, through Sunday, September 27. It’s a dedicated time to acknowledge their indispensable role in healthcare.

How many surgical technologists are there in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were approximately 109,700 surgical technologists employed in 2022. This vital workforce is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032.

What is the average salary for a surgical technologist?

The median annual salary for surgical technologists was $59,500 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and healthcare facility.

What is the difference between a surgical technologist and a surgical assistant?

A surgical technologist primarily prepares the operating room, sterilizes instruments, and maintains the sterile field during surgery. A surgical assistant, often with more advanced training, directly assists the surgeon by performing tasks like suturing, retracting tissue, and controlling bleeding under supervision.

How to Observe National Surgical Technologists Week

Tech talk

Write about this week on social media or chat about it during a coffee date. You never know just who you might influence to become a surgical tech.

Shadow a surgical tech

Some hospitals may let you shadow a surgical tech for the day, or at the very least, you can talk to someone for an informational interview.

Thank your surgical tech

A kind gesture will not go unnoticed. A simple thank you card is a great idea, but if you want to get a little more extravagant you might consider baking some tasty treats or delivering flowers.

5 Things To Know About Becoming A Surgical Tech

Every day is different

There's no such thing as a routine day. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities.

Saving lives is part of the job

Making sure that everything is up and running — and sanitary — in the operating room is a key factor in saving the lives of patients undergoing surgery.

Jobs wherever you go

Since most hospitals employ surgical techs, this career path is easily transferable to different cities and states.

Not a ton of education

It's possible to become a surgical tech after completing just a couple of years of college.

Job growth

Job growth for surgical techs is expected to grow by 12 percent over the next several years.

Why National Surgical Technologists Week is Important

The week encourages people to explore this career path

It points out the important role this position plays in the hospital setting. By learning more information, it's likely that someone may feel inspired to pursue this career.

This week recognizes all of the hard work surgical techs do

It's definitely a physically and emotionally draining task. Surgical techs play an important role in ensuring that each and every surgery goes as smoothly as possible.

This week brings surgical techs together

It's a great time for everyone in this profession to come together and celebrate all of the difficult work they accomplish on a daily basis.