Program Equips Surgical Residents with Career-Defining Skills

The comprehensive, dynamic Surgery Resident Program has been shaped to address the distinct requirements of surgical residents as they stand on the precipice of their surgical careers.

The program, taking place today (10:00 am–1:00 pm) and tomorrow (10:00 am–2:00 pm) in Room 210-211 of Moscone South, offers a specialized experience, where residents will gain exposure to medical knowledge and valuable advice, while building a robust professional network. All residents are invited to join the lively sessions over the next 2 days.

“We are so excited to be offering the Surgery Resident Program again this year,” said Program Chair Leigh A. Neumayer, MD, MBA, MS, FACS. “Back by popular demand, we will have sessions on compensation and contract negotiation, managing your finances, and new this year, we invited the faculty members from the ACS Residents as Teachers and Leaders course to showcase effective leadership and teaching styles for surgical residents.”

Lectures, interactive events, panel discussions, and a skills competition will fill the schedule, along with presentations on timely, relevant topics such as surgical ergonomics, communication strategies, compensation and contract negotiations, becoming an effective leader, and personal finances. Program attendees also will have opportunities to network with residents from across the country and meet ACS leaders, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful surgical career and a sense of belonging within the surgical community.

Lectures, interactive events, panel discussions, and a skills competition will fill the schedule, along with presentations on timely, relevant topics such as surgical ergonomics, communication strategies, compensation and contract negotiations, becoming an effective leader, and personal finances. Program attendees also will have opportunities to network with residents from across the country and meet ACS leaders, ensuring a strong foundation for a successful surgical career and a sense of belonging within the surgical community. 

The program today will include a chat with ACS President Henri R. Ford, MD, MHA, FACS; a presentation on building a sustainable career as a surgeon; and an introduction to the SurgeonsPAC and ACS Foundation.

The popular skills contest, “So You Think You Can Operate?,” will be held from 3:30–5:30 pm in Room 209 of Moscone South. Eight teams are set for this interactive competition that will test surgical trainees' skills and teamwork. Cheer them on as they vie for institutional glory and bragging rights.

On Sunday, the program’s presentations follow the Opening Ceremony for Clinical Congress and will delve into the importance of “leading on the ground,” selecting and negotiating for your best career move and peace of mind, and personal finances for residency and beyond.

“The American College of Surgeons is a valuable organization for surgeons at all levels. We think the Surgery Resident Program is an excellent way for residents to learn the value of being a Fellow,” said Dr. Neumayer.

Also for Residents: RAS Symposium

The annual RAS Symposium—“Artificial Intelligence in Surgery: Promises and Pitfalls”—held today, from 1:00–3:00 pm in Room 301-302 of Moscone South, will explore the current state of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is applied in medicine and surgery.

Join the debate as RAS members and ACS leaders weigh the benefits and drawbacks of AI and other disruptive technologies and evaluate the ethical foundation and regulatory environment of AI.

And, don’t forget: All Resident Members and Associate Fellows are invited to attend the RAS Business Meeting Monday, 12:00–4:00 pm in Room 2000 of Moscone West. It will be a great opportunity to learn about each of the RAS committees and meet other RAS Members.

In-person and virtual registration for residents is $55. Share updates or follow Clinical Congress on X using #ACSCC24, and join the RAS WhatsApp group.