Jonathan scans surgical tools as part of his new role in the Sterile Processing Department at UC San Diego Health.
When Jonathan began his career in San Diego, healthcare wasn’t on his radar. He worked outdoors as a theme park mechanic, but the long days in the sun pushed him to explore new opportunities. That decision eventually led him to UC San Diego Health and toward a future in healthcare.
Jonathan first entered the hospital environment as an environmental services contractor. His first hospital job was unexpected “I thought I was applying for maintenance,” he remembers. “But their idea of maintenance was cleaning. It wasn’t what I expected, but I took it. That role got me in the door.”
While working, Jonathan returned to school. He earned his associate’s degree, completed a pharmacy program, and soon after discovered the Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) program run by JVS and UCSD Health. At first, he hesitated. “They sent the email to over 500 people,” he recalls. “I thought, ‘What are the chances?’ But I applied anyway.”
To his surprise, Jonathan was accepted. The program led to a full-time role in sterile processing at UC San Diego Health, where he now ensures surgical instruments are safe and ready for patient care. “SPT is fast paced,” he says. “You have to be efficient and accurate. It’s hands-on, every day.”
Now as a SPT at UCSD Health, Jonathan prefers working the overnight shift because of the lack of commuting traffic and the flexibility it gives him during the day. As a lifelong learner, he’s now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and is considering medical school in the future. “I want to relax a little first, but my next step after I finish my degree is preparing for the MCAT. I know I want to stay in healthcare,” Jonathan shares.
For anyone considering the SPT program, his advice is clear. “If this is what you really want to do, be ready. It’s fast, it’s busy, but it’s rewarding. You need to balance speed with quality. Once you find that rhythm, you’ll see how important the work really is.”
Jonathan’s story first appeared in our 2025 Impact Report. Check out the full report for more inspiring alumni stories.
