I'm a Pathfinder: Robyn Young

Published on Sep 16, 2025

Robyn Young, a native of Grayson, grew up with a strong work ethic instilled by her parents, who emphasized the value of hard work and education.

“They always told me they wanted me to get an education so that I would be able to support myself no matter what and not have to work as hard in life as they had,” said Young. 

Inspired by their example and guidance, Young knew from an early age that she wanted a career in healthcare.

After graduating from East Carter High School in 2003, Young attended Morehead State University. She admits she had difficulty balancing her education with events happening in her personal life and opted to take a brief break from pursuing her education to work as an instructional aide for Carter County Schools.

A conversation with a former student of the Surgical Technology program at Ashland Community & Technical College (ACTC) opened Young’s eyes to a career path that combined her passion for healthcare with hands-on clinical opportunities.

Young was accepted into ACTC’s Surgical Technology Program and earned her diploma in December 2007. She later returned to complete her Associate of Applied Science degree in May 2025, nearly 17 years later, and was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society prior to graduation.

During her initial time in the program, Young gained practical experience through a paid externship at St. Mary’s Medical Center, which transitioned into a full-time position once she graduated.

She says she spent nine years at St. Mary’s before joining what is now Marshall Health Network as an Oral Surgery Assistant, a position she continues to hold part-time.

Alongside that position, Young proudly gives back to ACTC as an adjunct faculty member and clinical instructor for the surgical technology program.

Young says her degrees and training not only provided her with career opportunities and a professional network but also enabled her to financially support her family and explore new possibilities she never imagined when she began her career.

“My education at ACTC has opened new doors for me that when I started my career I never knew were possible,” Young says.

She encourages prospective students to explore the many programs ACTC offers, from diplomas and certificates to associate degrees, proving that a smaller college can deliver exceptional education and life-changing opportunities.

“You don’t need a big university to get the best education,” she says.

Written by: Megan Smedley, ACTC strategic communications administrator