3022 - Where Have All the Sterile Processing Technicians Gone? A Strategy to Grow Your Own

Overview/Abstract: Facing critical shortages of qualified sterile processing technicians, increasing market competition, and a lack of robust training programs, the Penn Medicine Sterile Processing Leadership team developed an innovative internal initiative: the Earn to Learn Sterile Processing Technician Training Program. By leveraging financial and operational data, the team built a compelling business case and launched a comprehensive training curriculum that combines didactic learning, simulation, and hands-on experience.

Designed for internal employees seeking career advancement and sterile processing certification, the program equips participants with essential knowledge and skills. This session will explore the key steps behind the program’s development, curriculum design, implementation, and measurable successes.