Veteran Spotlight

Honoring Those Who Served

2026 Toy Drive — Benefiting Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Annual Tradition · 25th Anniversary

Toy Drive — Benefiting Children's Hospital Los Angeles

📅 October 17, 2026 📍 Children's Hospital Los Angeles

"New. Unwrapped. Full of hope. Full of joy."

Join us as we honor our legacy of service by bringing hope, comfort, and smiles to the children of Children's Hospital Los Angeles. You can make a child's day a little brighter.

Please bring a new, unwrapped toy to the conference on October 17th. All donations will be delivered directly to children and families receiving care at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

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Annual Business Conference

2026 Annual Business Conference

📅 October 17, 2026 📍 Children's Hospital Los Angeles 🕐 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Join us for the CA-SA of AST 25th Anniversary Annual Business Conference — a landmark event celebrating 25 years of skill, compassion, and commitment to surgical technology in California.

25th Annual Conference · October 17, 2026

Meet the Speakers

Leaders in perioperative care and surgical technology joining us at Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

Dr. Marell Hazel Garcia

Dr. Marell Hazel Garcia

DNP, MS, RN, CNOR

Director of Perioperative Services, CHLA

A healthcare leader with deep experience in perioperative services, supply chain management and consulting, clinical research, Medicaid, and Medicare. Dr. Garcia holds a Master of Science in Leadership and Management from North Park University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. She is passionate about advancing patient care and supporting perioperative teams.

Carlos Navarro

Carlos Navarro

CST, FAST

Treasurer, NBSTSA Board of Directors

A longtime leader and advocate for the surgical technology profession and a U.S. Navy veteran. Carlos was active with the California State Assembly from 2013 through 2023 and continues to serve as a delegate. He now serves on the Board of Directors of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Marsha Lyles

Marsha Lyles

CST, CSFA, FAST

Chair, State Assembly Leadership Committee

A surgical technology professional, educator, and Navy veteran who began her career in 1991 with 10 years of active duty. Marsha has 30+ years in surgical services, including oncology, trauma, cardiac, vascular, thoracic, general, and robotic surgery. She chairs SALC and is completing her term as President of the Montana State Assembly.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles · 4650 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 · 6 CE hours

Register for the Conference

Welcome to CA-SA of AST

The California State Assembly of the Association of Surgical Technologists is dedicated to promoting excellence in surgical patient care through education, professional development, and advocacy for surgical technologists across California.

Learn About Us
Surgical technologist passing instrument to surgeon during procedure

Get Involved

Professional Development Events

Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events designed specifically for surgical technologists in California. Stay current with industry trends and connect with peers.

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Continuing Education

Access resources for continuing education credits, certification information, and professional development opportunities to maintain and advance your credentials.

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Legislative Advocacy

Stay informed about legislative updates and advocacy efforts that impact the surgical technology profession in California. Your voice matters.

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What Our Members Say

"CA-SA of AST has been instrumental in my professional growth. The networking opportunities and continuing education events have helped me advance my career and stay current with industry best practices."

Sarah Martinez, CST Surgical Technologist, Los Angeles

"As a student, joining CA-SA opened doors I didn't know existed. The mentorship program and student-focused workshops gave me the confidence and skills I needed to excel in my certification exam."

James Chen Recent Graduate, San Francisco

"The legislative advocacy work CA-SA does is crucial for our profession. It's empowering to be part of an organization that actively fights for the rights and recognition surgical technologists deserve."

Patricia Johnson, CST Surgical Tech Educator, Sacramento

Recent Event

2026 AST National Conference — Seattle

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