Kristie Cole, EdD(c), M.Ed., BAS, CST, FAST
Kristie Cole is the Director of Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing Programs and a Professor at South Plains College in Lubbock, Texas. She holds an A.A.S. in Surgical Technology, a B.A.S. in Surgical Services, and an M.Ed. in Human Resources, and is currently completing her Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership with a research focus on surgical technology training, orientation, and its impact on patient safety.
With more than 15 years in surgical technology education, Cole believes learning extends beyond the classroom and laboratory into the clinical setting. She emphasizes communication and collaboration among students, educators, preceptors, and healthcare professionals while helping students connect didactic knowledge with clinical practice.
At the heart of Cole’s teaching philosophy is patient safety and advocating for the patient who cannot advocate for themselves under anesthesia. She is committed to developing competent, accountable surgical technologists while supporting student success throughout both their didactic and clinicals.