When it comes to a college-to-career-connected education, Emilee Wood has quite an alumni story to tell. After enrolling in the Dental Assisting program at Renton Technical College (RTC), she built the technical skills, confidence, and professional foundation needed to launch a successful career in dentistry. Today, she has come full circle, returning to RTC as a full-time faculty instructor, where she helps prepare the next generation of dental assistants for careers of their own.

In a recent interview, Emilee reflects on the experiences and mentors that shaped her journey, the skills she continues to use every day, and the fulfillment she finds in guiding students from the classroom to the workforce. She also shares advice for current students and what it means to give back to the program that first opened the door to her career.

What drew you to RTC and the Dental Assisting program?

I was drawn to RTC because of its strong reputation for providing hands-on, career-focused education. The Dental Assistant Program offered the perfect combination of technical training, real-world experience, and supportive instructors who were committed to student success. I knew it would provide the foundation I needed to begin a rewarding career in dentistry.

What was your standout or most memorable experience at RTC?

One of my most memorable experiences was participating in our on campus live clinic and internship in the community which allowed me to apply what I was learning in the classroom. Those experiences helped build my confidence and reinforced my passion for dental assisting. The relationships I formed with classmates and instructors also made a lasting impact on me.

Who or what at RTC influenced you most?

The instructors had the greatest influence on me. They challenged me to grow professionally while providing encouragement and support along the way. Their dedication to student success inspired me not only to pursue excellence in my dental career but eventually to become an educator myself.

What do you do in your current role?

I currently serve as a full-time faculty instructor. In this role, I teach and mentor future dental assistants, helping them develop the clinical skills, professionalism, confidence, and critical thinking abilities needed for success in the dental field. I am honored to support students as they begin their own professional journeys.

Which RTC skills do you use most today?

The skills I use most often are communication, teamwork, professionalism, patient-centered care, and clinical dental assisting techniques. RTC taught me not only the technical aspects of the profession but also the importance of building strong relationships with patients, coworkers, and the broader dental team. These skills continue to be essential in both clinical practice and education.

In your current role, what are you most proud of?

I am most proud of helping students discover their potential and gain confidence in their abilities. Watching students overcome challenges, master new skills, graduate, and begin successful careers in dentistry is incredibly rewarding. Knowing I can play a small part in their success is what makes teaching so meaningful to me.

What advice do you have for current students?

Take advantage of every opportunity to learn, ask questions, and gain hands-on experience. Be open to feedback, stay curious, and remember that confidence comes with practice. Build strong relationships with your classmates, instructors, and internship offices because those connections can become valuable throughout your career. Most importantly, believe in yourself and trust the process.

What does it mean to you to be an RTC alum and bring your training back full circle?

Being an RTC alum and returning as a faculty member is incredibly meaningful to me. RTC gave me the education, skills, and opportunities that launched my career, and now I have the privilege of giving back to the program that helped shape my future. It feels truly full circle to stand in front of students today and help them achieve the same goals I once had as an RTC Dental Assisting student. It is both an honor and a responsibility that I value deeply.