Dear Histonetters,

Kudos to those of us who are in agreement that techs truly need formal
training.  I was trained more than 20 years ago by Dezna Sheehan and learned
not only the practical aspects of the art of histology, but also the theory
behind it.  I now work at a major university medical school and am sometimes
disappointed at the quality of work and the limited knowledge (if any) of
theory that some techs posses.  While for some it may be fine to be human
microtomes, to be able to troubleshoot a problem when one arises, is far more
rewarding.  I believe that the most unfortunate part of the problem with OJT
is that histology laboratories have become histology factories and the care
that is needed to produce quality work and train competent technicians is
going down the drain.  Maybe that's why there are so many positions out there
that are not filled.  We need more good schools and must raise salaries to
attract quality people to our art.

Fran