What in the World is Histotechnology?

An innovative outreach program has been developed with the National Society for Histotechnology to attract students, especially under-represented minorities, to the field of histotechnology. At the NSH Annual Meeting, high school students from local high schools explore career and education opportunities, study biomedical implants and materials, and actively participate in the histological analysis of a biomaterials reaction to a polymeric material. The students are led through the steps of preparing and studying tissue samples containing a resorbable suture under the guidance of volunteer histotechs and Bioengineering students. A bilingual brochure was developed describing career paths and education options for the students to share with their families. A teacher's guide was also developed to help translate the workshop materials into classroom activities. Co-sponsored by the Center for Advanced Engineering Fibers and Films, and the National Society for Histotechnology.