Residents of the United Kingdom have the option of choosing a career as a plaster technician. As of 2011, 1,490 people hold the British Casting Certificate, according to the Association of Orthopaedic Practioners. The United States equivalent of plaster technicians has the job title of orthopaedic technologists. They receive their certification from the National Association of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT). Regardless of the country you live in, the requirements for becoming a plaster technician are similar.

  • Residents of the United Kingdom have the option of choosing a career as a plaster technician.
  • The United States equivalent of plaster technicians has the job title of orthopaedic technologists.

Earn a high school diploma. Technicians must have a high school diploma in order for employers to consider their applications. A General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is also acceptable.

Work for a medical facility in the casting room. As openings are few, you may have to work as a volunteer or begin working for another department and request a transfer when there is an opening.

Attend a training class. While you can become a plaster technician without attending formal training, you cannot gain your certification without it. According to the National Health Service of Scotland, it can be difficult to obtain work as a technician because of the limited number of jobs.

Gain your certification by applying to the association relevant for your country. You must supply references from a Fellow of the British Orthopaedic Association surgeon and your line manager for the BCC before taking the examination.

  • Work for a medical facility in the casting room.
  • You must supply references from a Fellow of the British Orthopaedic Association surgeon and your line manager for the BCC before taking the examination.

TIP

The certifying association for your country must approve the training programme you choose.

WARNING

As of publication, the cost for applying for BCC certification is £200 ($320), which you must include with your application.