Three Surgical Technology Students at Trailblazing Allied Health College Awarded National Scholarships for Excellence

The Foundation for Surgical Technology has awarded scholarships to three learners from the College of Health Care Professions.

HOUSTON, Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The College of Health Care Professions (CHCP) announced today that three of its Surgical Technology students — David Kimani, Matov Rodriguez, and Jasmine Molina — have each been awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Foundation for Surgical Technology. The national recognition honors students who demonstrate exceptional dedication to advancing in-demand skills and a commitment to patient care.

The three learners enter surgical technology at a critical moment for the U.S. healthcare system. According to federal workforce projections, demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade, driven by an aging population, expanded access to healthcare, and advances in surgical procedures. Shortages of skilled surgical technologists are already straining hospitals and health systems nationwide.

"These students represent the best of CHCP's mission. All three demonstrate the values of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to serving patients in one of the most essential roles in healthcare," said Eric Bing, Chancellor of the College of Health Care Professions. "At a time when demand for surgical technologists is outpacing the national supply, their achievements highlight both the urgency of the workforce challenge and the power of education to change lives. Their success inspires us to continue expanding access to training that prepares job-ready professionals who are ready to step into critical roles on day one."

The students honored bring diverse life experiences to their training:

• David Kimani, a father of two and CRCST-certified professional working at Frisco Medical City, was inspired by his wife, a nurse, to enter the surgical technology field. His goal is to specialize in minimally invasive procedures and one day mentor new technologists.
• Matov Rodriguez, a first-generation student with an AAS from Brookhaven College, discovered her passion for surgery through curiosity and a drive to learn. She plans to continue on to become a Certified Surgical First Assistant and mentor future students.
• Jasmine Molina, a caregiver and teaching assistant, chose surgical technology to directly impact patient outcomes. She hopes to specialize in neurosurgery and ultimately support and mentor the next generation of surgical technologists.

"These scholarships highlight not only the academic excellence of our students, but also their personal commitment to a field that is vital to the nation's healthcare workforce," said Dr. Joanitt Montano, Provost and Vice-President of Academics at CHCP. "The dedication shown by our students is inspiring, and at CHCP, we are proud to equip them with the hands-on training and knowledge they need to excel in their careers and make an immediate impact in patient care."

With the support of the Foundation for Surgical Technology, CHCP students are advancing their education and preparing to fill critical workforce shortages that impact hospitals and surgical centers across the country.

About CHCP
As a leader in healthcare education and training, CHCP helps students develop the skills they need to meet the demands of today's healthcare industry. Founded by physicians, CHCP is focused on healthcare education and training and its accredited programs have been developing healthcare professionals for over 35 years. CHCP faculty have real-world, on-the-job experience and are committed to helping students succeed. Just as importantly, CHCP's on-campus, blended, online and hybrid program offerings give students flexible options to learn on their schedule. CHCP offers continuing education nationwide for medical imaging and emerging healthcare technologies through the Medical Technology Management Institute (MTMI). For more information, visit www.chcp.edu.

SOURCE The College of Health Care Professions