What do the students in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Technology program have to look forward to after graduation? What better way to learn about a day in the life of an Orthotics & Prosthetics technician than by going and watching one at work!

We had the opportunity to do just that on Sept. 20. We visited Hanger Clinic Clearwater to talk with Tim Cotte, a Licensed Orthotic Fitter and Technician. Tim is a graduate of the O&P program at Century College who has worked for the clinic for more than 20 years.

Orthotics: What You Need to Succeed

Tim believes that a great technician should have good hand skills, be able to listen and multi-task.

Multi-tasking indeed! This typical morning consisted of working with resin and carbon graphite to construct a lower limb prosthesis, sewing leather straps to alter an orthotic device, and fixing damaged hardware on a hip prosthesis. Tim told us he enjoys the freedom that his career provides as well as the option to collaborate with patients to design their prosthetics. If Tim’s longevity is any indicator, the profession of O&P Technician is a great one to consider!

Helping humans and animals

The O&P field is not restricted to human patients. You may have heard of Winter, a dolphin living at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, who uses a prosthetic tail. However, there is another prosthesis-wearing animal celebrity in our community named Rosie.

We had the good fortune to meet Rosie, the Great Dane, and her person, Maja, at the clinic. Rosie lost her right hind foot as a puppy. She is now a 1-year-old and needs to have her prosthesis modified regularly to accommodate her growth and weight gain. Maja explained that Rosie utilizes her prosthesis just like a regular foot and loves running on the beach. Follow Rosie on Facebook.

Want to know more?

Does this sound like the career for you? Learn more about the Associate in Science Degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics at SPC.