Michelle Arnell – Northern Utah Orthodontic Assisting School
BY HAILEY MINTON
Michelle Arnell became an instructor for Northern Utah Orthodontic Assisting School in 2009 when the school first opened. “I didn’t hesitate to accept the position since I had been working for an orthodontist since 1994 and I already loved working in the field,” she said.
Michelle worked first as an orthodontic assistant and eventually became a treatment coordinator. When she started her career, she had to learn everything on the job. “It was very overwhelming to be thrown in that way!” She was very excited to help future Orthodontic Assistants have a smoother path.
She taught and worked part-time for an orthodontist until she seized the opportunity to buy and take ownership of the school. She loved the new challenge as the school’s director. “I am truly blessed to love what I do for a living! I have a great team of highly trained and educated instructors with extensive knowledge and skills. I have gotten to know so many amazing students over the years and it has been incredibly rewarding to help others begin their careers.”
The school is located in an actual orthodontic office to give students the ability to train beyond the typical classroom setting. Class sizes are small to give students individualized attention and the curriculum is over 80% hands-on training. One of the school’s main goals is to facilitate highly sought-after employees.
“It truly is a great career choice no matter what stage of life you are in, with or without kids. Most offices offer full or part-time positions. I am also a mom to four amazing kids and my job in orthodontics has allowed me to have a flexible work schedule, allowing me to be a huge part of their childhoods. Probably more than they wish I was. It is a career that is both challenging and rewarding. You can help be a part of changing someone’s smile, confidence, and make a difference in patients’ lives.”
Trained orthodontic assistants are in high demand and have great earning potential with excellent benefits. ”Our goal is to help students gain the knowledge, skills, and professionalism needed to be confident and highly trained orthodontic assistant,” said Michelle. Northern Utah Orthodontic Assisting School is located in Ogden and enrollment is now open for the 2021 August session. Classes are held twice a week, Tuesday evenings from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Thursday mornings from 9 a.m – 11 a.m. Whether you are a mom interested in returning to the workforce, or a soon-to-be high school graduate, Michelle said, “I highly encourage those interested in beginning their exciting career in orthodontics to go to our website and apply!”