Finding a Path in Surgical Technology
For Mallary Armenta, finding the right career path wasn't a straight line, but it was always guided by a desire to help others.
Born in Brigham City and raised in Tooele, Utah, Mallary graduated from the Digital Education Center in 2022 after transitioning to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. While her path through high school shifted unexpectedly, her motivation remained steady. "I knew I wanted to help people since I was young," she says.
After graduating, Mallary went straight to college, determined to find a career that matched that purpose. She first tried accounting but quickly realized it wasn't the right fit. She then explored criminal justice but again felt something was missing. "I wasn't very passionate about it," she says.
Everything changed when she discovered surgical technology.
After researching the field, Mallary took the initiative to apply to sterile processing positions across the area. Her persistence paid off when she was hired at the University of Utah Health. It was there, working alongside medical professionals in a real-world setting, that everything clicked. "I ended up getting a job at the University of Utah and fell in love with it," she says. Encouraged by colleagues who recognized her potential, she applied to the Surgical Technology program at Salt Lake Community College—calling it the "best decision I have ever made."
When Mallary was accepted into the program and awarded support through the Metallica Scholars Initiative, she was overwhelmed with gratitude. "I was very excited and speechless," she says. "I'm big on the idea that everything happens for a reason, and being given this opportunity has been a blessing."
The scholarship has made a meaningful difference, easing the financial burdens that often come with pursuing a healthcare education. For Mallary, that support goes beyond tuition. "Financial pressure is overwhelming, especially when it comes to healthcare," she explains. "This opportunity has helped me focus more on my education and succeed in this program, while also helping my family."
That sense of support has also given her something less tangible, but equally important: confidence. "It's given me reassurance that there are people and organizations who believe in students pursuing amazing careers," she says.
Although she describes herself as someone who isn't naturally outgoing, Mallary has found a strong sense of belonging in surgical technology. The field allows her to combine her desire to help others with a love of hands-on, fast-paced work. "It's a combination of teamwork, precision, and patient care," she says. "I love the responsibility of helping surgeries run safely and efficiently."
Looking ahead, Mallary plans to continue building her skills in a trauma hospital setting, where she can gain experience across a wide range of specialties. "I want to work with a strong surgical team and continue learning," she says. "My goal is to provide the best care possible for my patients."
For others considering a new path, Mallary offers simple but powerful advice: take it one step at a time. "Starting anything new can feel overwhelming," she says. "One thing that helped me is to focus on one test, one class, one goal. No matter what, the day is going to pass—so make the best of it. It's never too late."
Mallary is deeply grateful for the opportunity she"s been given through the Metallica Scholars Initiative. "This is more than just financial assistance," she says. "It gives students motivation to keep pushing forward because their goals matter. This foundation truly changes lives."
As one of seven siblings and the second oldest in her family, Mallary feels a strong sense of responsibility to lead by example. She sees her journey as proof that persistence and hard work can open doors. "I'm proud to be part of this program that values hard work and determination," she says. "I'm going to give 110% toward my career."
She also shares a personal note of appreciation for the band behind the program. "My brother and dad are big fans of Metallica. They flipped out when I told them," she says. "Thank you for making this opportunity possible."