Grant Topping

In a dental lab technician program at TCAT, I will spend a year learning the skills needed to create dental restorations and appliances. I will study dental anatomy, materials science, and techniques for fabricating crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic devices. Hands-on training will involve working with tools like 3D printers, CAD/CAM software, and traditional molding methods to craft precise dental prosthetics. I will practice shaping, polishing, and customizing restorations to match patient specifications. The program will also cover quality control, ensuring durability and aesthetics, and collaboration with dentists through case studies. By the end, I will be equipped to produce high quality dental appliances in a lab setting.

I observed Dr. Collens do a variety of procedures and daily tasks in an oral and maxillofacial surgery practice. I watched the surgeon perform tooth extractions, place dental implants, and conduct corrective jaw surgeries. I saw how they consulted with patients, explaining procedures, outlining treatment plans, and addressing concerns with clarity and empathy. I noted the use of advanced tools, X-rays, and 3D imaging, as well as the administration of anesthesia. I was impressed by the emphasis on sterile techniques, the seamless teamwork with dental assistants and hygienists, and the surgeon’s critical decision making in complex cases. This experience gave me a firsthand look at the technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and problem solving abilities required in oral surgery, along with the fast paced, patient focused environment of the profession.

During my time shadowing Dr. Hull, I witnessed a range of intricate procedures and the inner workings of an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic. I observed the surgeon skillfully perform wisdom tooth removals, bone grafting for dental implants, and a biopsy of an oral lesion. I was struck by how they engaged with patients during preoperative consultations, calmly discussing risks, benefits, and recovery expectations while answering questions with patience. I saw them utilize cone beam CT scans for precise treatment planning and manage local and IV sedation with care. The attention to infection control, coordination with the surgical team, and quick decision making during unexpected complications stood out to me. This shadowing opportunity deepened my understanding of the blend of precision, compassion, and adaptability needed in oral surgery, as well as the dynamic, high stakes nature of the specialty.

• Observed Dr. Romero and he helped explain each case that he did in detail to better help me understand oral surgery.
• Followed industry professionals to learn appropriate methods for solving issues and best practices for task completion.
• Connected coursework with current events, encouraging students to apply academic knowledge in real-world contexts.
• Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating real-world examples and case studies.

While shadowing an Dr. Long, I gained a firsthand look into the world of specialized dentistry focused on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. I observed the orthodontist conducting patient consultations, reviewing dental records, and discussing treatment options like braces or aligners. Watching them use tools such as X-rays and 3D imaging to evaluate dental structures was fascinating, highlighting the precision involved. I saw procedures like fitting braces, adjusting wires, and placing retainers, which showcased the hands on skills required. The experience also emphasized the importance of clear communication, as the orthodontist patiently explained oral hygiene practices and treatment plans to patients. Shadowing revealed the rewarding mix of technical expertise, patient interaction, and long term care that defines orthodontics.

• Assisted in emergency situations with calm professionalism, providing swift support to the dentist in addressing patient needs.
• . Expedited the patient check-in process by collecting medical histories and verifying insurance information, reducing wait times and improving overall satisfaction.
• Contributed to a positive patient experience by establishing rapport and maintaining a friendly demeanor throughout appointments.
• Increased patient satisfaction with personalized care through attentive listening to concerns and adapting chairside manner accordingly.
• Assisted dentists in complex dental procedures, ensuring smooth operations and efficient treatment for patients.
• Maintained an organized inventory of dental supplies, placing orders when necessary to prevent stock shortages or delays in service delivery.
• Cleaned and sanitized dental tools and equipment, straightened treatment rooms, and restocked supplies to prep for next patient and maintain health and safety practices.
• Sanitized trays, instruments, and surfaces for clean dental office setting and patient safety.
• Scheduled and confirmed patient appointments.
• Assisted dentists, hygienists, and other personnel by handing appropriate tools and supplies needed for procedures.

• Improved job site safety by maintaining a clean and organized work environment, promptly addressing potential hazards.
• Assisted in the installation of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems for comprehensive building functionality.
• Operated heavy machinery including forklifts, backhoes, and skid loaders to expedite construction processes.
• Ensured accurate measurements with laser levels and transit equipment during surveying procedures.
• Performed carpentry tasks such as framing walls, installing doors and windows, and constructing support structures for solid building integrity.
• Contributed to timely project completion by efficiently performing demolition tasks and debris removal.
• Completed drywall installation process by hanging sheets, taping seams, applying joint compound for smooth wall surfaces.
• Collaborated with team members to complete projects on schedule, ensuring clear communication and efficient task allocation.
• Loaded and unloaded construction materials from trucks, reducing downtime between tasks and promoting productivity.
• Constructed temporary structures like scaffolding or barricades for safe access to elevated areas during construction projects.
• Enhanced project efficiency by assisting in the execution of construction tasks such as framing, roofing, and concrete work.
• Executed landscaping duties including grading, sodding, planting trees or shrubs for aesthetically pleasing exteriors.
• Supported masonry work by mixing mortar or concrete ingredients while adhering to proper ratios for optimal structural stability.
• Utilized hammers, saws, squares, levels, and fastening devices to complete projects.

• Prepared and packaged boxes during box assembly line phase.
• Distributed food boxes with carefully selected essentials to families in need.
• Kept warehouses and preparation areas clean and orderly to limit workplace risk.
• Organized, sorted and stored donations in orderly systems to minimize waste.
• Loaded and unloaded distribution trucks at destination.
• Packed meals for children and families around the world.

• Enhanced the overall homeless shelter experience by providing warm meals and a welcoming environment for guests.
• Managed meal preparation shifts, ensuring timely delivery of nutritious meals to all shelter guests.
• Collaborated with local organizations to secure donations of food, clothing, and other essential items for the shelter''s operations.
• Assisted in the organization of shelter resources, ensuring efficient distribution of clothing and supplies to those in need.
• Created a sense of community within the shelter by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all guests.
• Improved shelter conditions with thorough cleaning and maintenance tasks.
• Helped build new shelters and maintained landscaping.

• Completed on-time deliveries by choosing best and most efficient routes.
• Improved customer satisfaction by ensuring timely and accurate deliveries of products.
• Read maps, followed oral, and written instructions and used GPS technology to make deliveries.
• Operated vehicle safely in highly congested areas with no traffic violations.
• Completed rush deliveries on tight timetables to satisfy customer needs.
• Maintained upbeat, positive attitude in busy, customer-focused environment.
• Loaded truck and properly secured items to prevent damage for deliveries.
• Managed customer inquiries and complaints in polite and professional manner.
• Verified accuracy of all deliveries against order forms.
• Upheld high standards of professionalism while representing the company during interactions with customers, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Maintained strong relationships with clients through proactive communication and personalized service.
• Kept meticulous records of deliveries, including invoices, delivery confirmations, and any other required documentation to ensure accurate tracking and billing processes.

• Provided exceptional customer service to all patients, fostering positive relationships that encouraged return visits.
• Maintained proper operation of dental equipment by completing regular preventive maintenance.
• Maintained a clean and sterile work environment by adhering to strict infection control protocols.

• Rotated, mounted and balanced tires on cars, trucks, and vans.
• Replaced and repaired tires using best practices for safe vehicle maintenance.
• Dismounted, mounted, and repaired tires according to manufacturer specifications.
• Improved customer satisfaction by providing timely and accurate tire services.
• Operated machines safely and correctly, including tire changers and wheel balancers.
• Serviced customer vehicles quickly and accurately to meet daily appointment schedules.
• Repaired tires to avoid costly replacements by patching, plugging and replacing valves.
• Facilitated strong communication among team members, fostering a positive work environment that encouraged collaboration.
• Inspected vehicle brakes, shocks and suspension systems, making repair recommendations to restore condition.
• Promoted energy conservation by properly inflating tires according to manufacturer specifications.