Tim Furgason completes program, aims for more training
When Tim Furgason wrapped up his classes in the Dental Assisting program at Kirkwood Community College he didn’t realize at first he was “making history.” But in a small but notable way, that was the case.
Furgason is the first male in any Health Science faculty member memory to fully complete the program. Program Coordinator Pam Hanson said the Johnson County resident “did well with good humor” in the female-dominated training program.
“We’ve had a few guys start in the program, try it out over the years. But Tim is the first one we know of to complete with us. He was a fine student, very conscientious. We’re proud of his work with us,” Hanson said.
Furgason worked in the optical field for a couple years after high school and discovered dental assisting as an interesting career choice. “This field seems to have a lot of job opportunities. Plus, compared to some fields the schooling is intense, but relatively short,” he observed.
As with many grads in the program, Furgason had a couple of job offers awaiting him when he took his last final in the summer of 2009. But he has further goals to accomplish at Kirkwood in the next year.
“My plans involve pursuing some additional credentials and completing my associate’s degree. There are two certifications I will earn that allow a dental assistant increased responsibility in the dental office,” he said.
Furgason also said he plans to use a built-in perk of most dental assistants as an avenue of giving back to his community.
“Dental assistants usually have a four-day work week schedule. I plan on increasing my share in some volunteer activities I take part in, with that flexibilty,” he said.