ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — The University of Alaska Anchorage is preparing to launch a surgical technology program that will train students for positions in the state's health care industry that have been difficult to fill.

Graduates of the program will earn an associate's degree in surgical technology to be able to assist surgeons with preparing the operating room and maintaining and sterilizing surgical equipment, The Alaska Public Radio Network reported (http://bit.ly/2phn6qj) on Monday.