Medical dramas always focus on the doctor. But when the surgeon reaches back and says “Scalpel,” it is a Surgical Technologist who puts the right scalpel in their hand. These operating room team members prepare and sterilize instruments, handle surgical specimens, and maintain a sterile atmosphere.

When Paula Jones lost her manufacturing job due to a company restructure, she sought help from a career counselor at the Rock County Job Center, who helped her narrow down her choices. Convinced that a healthcare career was for her, Paula returned to school at BTC and petitioned to the Radiography program. With limited seats and many qualified students applying every year, Paula decided to pursue another path. This search for a new direction coincided with BTC opening the Surgical Technology program, and Paula jumped in with both feet. “I had always found surgery interesting,” she said. “I wanted to learn more about how surgery went, but I didn’t want to be a surgeon myself. I like the difference you can make in the safety of the patient – the patient always comes first.”

Jessica Donahue, BTC Surgical Lab Tech Instructor, was confident that Paula had indeed found her path. “Paula was always the first to arrive to class,” Jessica said, “she had perfect attendance throughout the two years. She gives her all in everything she does. Paula has excellent study habits and uses the college’s resources. Paula’s grades are a true reflection of her determination to become a surgical tech.”

Paula confessed that she utilized the college’s learning lab as much as she could. “My first few years, I think I lived there to get help and have a place to study,” she said. Along with the learning lab, Paula appreciated the instructors who pointed her in the right direction and helped her succeed at her goals.

Faced with the challenge of juggling work and school, Paula also credits her family with her success. “I am lucky that I have a great family support system,” she says. “My husband and daughter were the cheering section for me to continue.”

When Paula isn’t scrubbing in, she can be found teaching hunter safety courses and out in the woods hunting herself.