Connect

UVA Health’s Earn While You Learn (EWYL) is marking a major milestone — graduating the first cohort of its new Surgical Technologist (ST) certification program in January 2026. “We are beyond thrilled!” exclaims EWYL Director Beth Mehring MSN, RN. 

She explains that the ability to “train our own is huge” in light of UVA Health’s growing perioperative setting, limited capacity in external educational programs, and ST shortages: “As we work with many within our region and across Virginia, we see a universal need for surgical technologists.”  

Mehring says this is also a major milestone because the program design and educational model for ST are different than from those of other EWYL programs: “A heavier lift than normal,” as she describes. 

“The educational team in the peri-operative area had to pivot rapidly to adapt to the educational needs as they occurred. These three trainees were very patient and committed as the program evolved around them,” she adds. “Each must have 125 operating room cases, experiencing specific types of surgeries as part of their training. The entire OR team should be celebrated as this is a team effort!” 

‘Sense of Community’  

Lori Mays, MSN, RN, serves as Perioperative Services Education Manager. She says the new EWYL program blends hands-on clinical experience with structured learning modules, and simulation. “It’s been a testament to collaboration, resilience, and the bright future of our perioperative community,” she says. “Our inaugural group of students didn’t just complete the program and pass their certification exam — they thrived! They tackled challenges, impressed in their clinical rotations, and showed us all what dedication looks like. We’ve seen not just skill growth, but a true sense of community and a whole lot of pride in how far they’ve come!” 

Mays says after partnering with MedCerts — Andrea Steele, R-CST IV, Administrative Coordinator, UVA Health Perioperative Education Services, “worked tirelessly” to collaborate with UVA HR, perioperative leadership, and EWYL to prepare for the first cohort.  She also helped coordinate a plan for students to complete their required 125 cases through clinical rotations at all UVA Health surgical sites and Labor and Delivery. 

Extraordinary Teamwork 

Lynn Phillips, CST, Administrative Coordinator, Perioperative Technical Programs, quickly identified a need for additional classroom instruction and went above and beyond to make it happen, even coming in on days off, working from home, providing personalized guidance, and more. 

“The teamwork has been extraordinary,” raves Mays. “This success is as much theirs, as it is the students’ and we’re grateful for everyone’s dedication. The EWYL Program leadership and team are not only committed to helping team members grow professionally, but they also are committed to the teams of educators running the programs.”  

‘A Team That Saves Lives’ 

Rebecca Waje, Ajmal Ghafari, and Allison Loya are set to graduate by month's end: 

• Waje joined UVA Health three years ago, worked as a Sterile Processing Technician for two years, then joined the EWYL ST program in January 2025. She wanted to become a ST to grow her healthcare career, apply her sterile processing skills to the new role, and learn more about complex surgeries and ideas. “I enjoy having my mind challenged. The preceptors have been very knowledgeable and helpful!”
   
• Ghafari has been working at UVA Health for nine years. His previous roles include Supply Specialist for four years and Surgical Support Technologist (SST) for five years. He joined the EWYL ST program a year ago because he's "passionate about helping patients and being part of a team that saves lives. This career allows me to make a meaningful difference every day.” What does Ghafari appreciate the most about the EWYL program? The strong support and hands-on learning. “The program helps me build confidence and develop the skills I need to succeed in my career.” Ghafari will be working in the Main Operating Room (OR), specializing in Neurosurgery and Spine cases.
   
• When Loya joined UVA Health four years ago, she started as a member of the Welcome Team. She transitioned to the OR as an SST in November 2023, where she became the lead SST for Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) — and Pediatrics.  She was selected to be in the first cohort of the EWYL ST program in January 2025. “I love being able to be someone my nurses and surgeons can rely on,” she explains. “Assisting the surgeon and resident, trying to anticipate their next moves for the surgery to flow perfectly.” Now she’s also assigned to the main OR. Loya took her certification exam in December and will be involved in clinicals until graduation at the end of this month. 

What’s Ahead? 

Mehring says a second cohort is underway, and a third will begin in February. “I’m very pleased UVA Health University Medical Center leadership has supported this effort in such a big way — as it is likely the best way we can ensure we have the STs needed.” 

Exudes Mays: “This is just the beginning of building a stronger, more skilled, and more cohesive perioperative team at UVA Health!” 

Ready to Consider EWYL?

In addition to Surgical Technologist, EWYL programs include Access Associate,  Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Patient Care Technician (PCT), Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy, and Sterile Processing Technician.

To learn more, join an upcoming 2026 EWYL General Information Session: Jan. 21, 10-11 a.m; Jan. 30, 12-1 p.m.; or Feb. 12, 3-4 p.m.