Suzette Robinson, BS, CST

President 2025-2027

I have served on the California State Assembly of the AST since 2021. I was elected in as a Board of Director and later appointed as Vice President. Working at USC for 10 years is what started me on this path. I realized over time that there is no surgical technology educators in the hospital system. We are often times lumped in nursing education and I felt the field needed more educators that truly know both sides. I have been blessed to also work as an educator at Glendale Career College. I have been a Surgical Technologist since 2009 and I still learn everyday how much more we are capable of. Being able to use these experiences to serve our state assembly bring me tremendous joy. I hope to continue to add value to the board for years to come.

Sabrina Arreaga, CST

Vice-President 2025- 2027

I have served on the California State Assembly of the AST since 2021. I was elected in as a Board of Director and later appointed as Vice President. Working at USC for 10 years is what started me on this path. I realized over time that there is no surgical technology educators in the hospital system. We are often times lumped in nursing education and I felt the field needed more educators that truly know both sides. I have been blessed to also work as an educator at Glendale Career College. I have been a Surgical Technologist since 2009 and I still learn everyday how much more we are capable of. Being able to use these experiences to serve our state assembly bring me tremendous joy. I hope to continue to add value to the board for years to come.

Treasurer 2025-2027

I have 4 years experience as a CST. My journey in the O.R. has been a roller coaster but I would not trade that for the world. I enjoy my line of work and am passionate about connecting with colleagues to provide quality care for the patient.

Wil Montes, CST

David Reyes, CST

Secretary 2024- 2026

Hello, my name is David Reyes, Certified Surgical Technologists at Keck University Hospital of USC. I come to you with the intention to serve the board, our profession and my fellow Surgical Technologist. I am currently a collaborating Surgical Technologist member of our UBC (Unit Base Council) at the hospital that I'm working. One of our smart goals at our UBC, is to raise the number of CST by 5% by the middle of 2022. I am a strong proponent of professional growth and certification among our ranks. Like our smart goal and through my passion and dedication, I am hoping to be able to contribute, partake and be an instrument in promoting the importance of our credential. I strongly believe that certification mandate and continuing education is going to propel us into the next level, as a valued member of the surgical team and as an essential allied healthcare professional.

Jessica Ramirez, CST
Board of Director 2023 - 2027

Hello, my name is Jessica Ramirez and I am one of your newest members serving on the Board of Director’s for CA-SA. I graduated in 2014 and did most of my training in Ortho and Spine. My world revolves around my family, especially my two children, who are extremely active and keeps me busy most days. I am employed at Stanford Cancer Center, South Bay. I love my current role because I truly see the difference we make for our patients at such a vulnerable time in their lives. I am eager to contribute to the Board of Directors for Surgical Technologists in California, advocating for safety, progress, and a voice for all Surgical Technologist. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members and making a difference in our field.

Bryan Pulgarian, CST
Board of Director 2025- 2026

My name is Bryam Pulgarin, and it is an honor to run for a seat on the California State
Assembly Board of Directors. I have served as a Certified Surgical Technologist since
2018 through my military service in the United States Navy and later as a civilian
educator. My experiences range from managing operating room and sterile processing
departments to leading and mentoring future surgical technologists.
I am passionate about advancing our profession, ensuring high educational standards,
and supporting students and professionals as they grow in their careers. Serving on the
AST Military Advisory Committee has allowed me to advocate for surgical technologists
in uniform, and my role as an instructor has given me the privilege of preparing the next
generation of CSTs for success.
As a Board of Directors member, my goal is to continue building bridges between the
classroom, the military, and the operating room while helping strengthen the future of
our profession. With your support, I will dedicate myself to elevating our field, promoting
awareness of our vital role in healthcare, and ensuring that surgical technologists are
recognized for the expertise we bring to the surgical team.

Kendria Stevens-Hulsinger, CST
Board of Director 2024-2026

With 19 years of experience as a Certified Surgical Technologist, 21 years as a proud

member of AST, and three years in surgical technology education, I have seen first and the importance of strong leadership and advocacy in our profession. Being elected as Board of Directors for the California State Assembly of the AST, I see this as an opportunity to lead, listen, and advocate for the individuals who make our profession so vital. I am deeply committed to ensuring that surgical technologists are supported, well-trained, and recognized for the essential contributions they make in healthcare.

In leadership, fostering collaboration and encouraging open dialogue is my top priorities. I believe that by listening to both new professionals and seasoned

technologists, we can work together to create initiatives that enhance education,

promote career growth, and strengthen our profession.

Advocacy is also be a central focus of my role. I am passionate about ensuring that

surgical technologists are represented in healthcare policy discussions and have a voice in decisions that affect our practice and future. With purpose and dedication, I would work to see our profession thrive and ensure that every member feels valued and supported on their journey.

Raquel Garza, CST
Board of Director 2025 -2027

I am committed to advocating for stronger healthcare systems, enhanced educational pathways, and a surgical technology workforce that is respected, protected, and well-prepared-especially through informed legislation. I bring a perspective that is both practical and compassionate, grounded in real-world experience and a deep respect for the work we do. I will work collaboratively with my fellow board members to not champion our profession, but also to raise public awareness about the critical role surgical technologists play in the operating room and throughout the healthcare system.

Your Officers and Board of Directors