Mariah Wesson is a forward-thinking clinical educator, surgical tech innovator, and leadership award recipient whose work is transforming how healthcare systems train and empower entry-level staff. As Clinical Educator at Allegheny Health Network (AHN), Mariah leads network-wide education initiatives that are closing skill gaps, improving patient safety, and elevating the standard of care across multiple hospital systems.

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With a background in surgical technology and first assist, Mariah brings hands-on knowledge and a collaborative mindset to everything she does. Her breakthrough moment came in 2023, when she identified a pressing need for structured, entry-level education in Sterile Processing Departments (SPD). Rather than waiting for a solution, she built one.

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Over 10 months, Mariah developed SPD 360, a three-tiered curriculum focused on onboarding and preparing new sterile processing employees with foundational technical skills, process knowledge, and safety practices. In 2024, SPD 360 became the standard training program across all seven AHN hospitals, with West Penn Hospital named the network’s SPD education hub under her leadership. Every month, new hires from across the region attend Mariah’s classes — leaving more confident, competent, and ready to thrive.

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Mariah’s teaching philosophy is grounded in empathy, adaptability, and precision. She tailors her methods to meet the diverse learning needs of her students, creating inclusive and engaging spaces that foster trust and teamwork. Her team-building mindset and “culture-positive” attitude have made her a respected leader throughout the perioperative education community.

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She is a recipient of the 2021 Innovator Award and Leadership Award (2021–2022) and has been a PeriOp Tech Seminar Presenter for 2024 and 2025, sharing her knowledge with other educators, leaders, and clinical staff.

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In addition to her role at AHN, Mariah gives back as a volunteer for PCI Outreach, AHN service events, and her local church, embodying a life of purpose, care, and commitment.

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Mariah Wesson is reshaping the future of healthcare education through creativity, compassion, and leadership. Her impact will be felt for generations of caregivers to come — and for that, she is a deserving honoree of the 2025 MVYP 25 Under 35 Awards.