Applications are now open for the ACS Future Trauma Leaders (FTL) program—an in-depth training and mentoring opportunity from the ACS Committee on Trauma (COT) for early career trauma and acute care surgeons (no more than 5 years out from fellowship completion). The application process is competitive; apply by July 29.
“The FTL program provided me with the opportunity of a lifetime. It not only gave me an early seat at the table, but it also gave me a voice,” said Chethan Sathya, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC, a pediatric trauma surgeon at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York, and part of the FTL Class of 2021. “The mentorship and dedication to making my FTL experience a worthy one was nothing short of incredible. Everyone was rooting for us to succeed. And to have that type of network and support so early on in one’s career is a game changer.”
Once selected, FTLs will be able to engage with COT committees within their areas of interest and participate in a new members welcome reception and Mentoring Day, both of which provide the opportunity to meet with leaders and learn about current projects.
Participants also will apply to join Work Groups through the COT Participation Opportunity Board and connect with leaders during the Spring and Fall COT meetings. In addition, FTLs will be encouraged to engage in their state and regional committees and develop an understanding of the practice and advocacy issues facing their regional trauma systems.
“This program opened doors in my career that I did not even know were there,” said Margaret M. Morgan, MD, FACS, a trauma surgeon at University of Colorado Health in Colorado Springs, and part of the FTL Class of 2018. “Being a part of the FTL allowed me to forge connections with other trauma surgeons across the country through which I was able to collaborate on projects within the ACS Military Health Strategic Partnership, Defense Committees on Trauma, and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians Prehospital Trauma Life Support Committee. It was perhaps the biggest steppingstone of my career, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities and mentorship.”
The 2-year FTL program begins with the COT Annual Meeting in March 2024 and concludes with the ACS Clinical Congress meeting in October 2025. To be eligible, participants must commit to attending all events during their appointment term, including the COT meetings (March/October), Mentoring Day (June), TQIP meeting (December), and the ACS Leadership & Advocacy Summit (April).
For more information, visit facs.org/ftl.
