​​Working in health care is a vital and rewarding profession, but the road to that first job can be daunting. That's why the role of a preceptor is so important. Those who have walked the path before bring valuable insights and experience to those just starting out. The knowledge they share often has a lasting impact on students as they move through their careers.

We are highlighting the experience and contributions of preceptors by featuring a series of interviews with some of the incredible individuals who have chosen to take on this critical role. It's our way of recognizing these unsung heroes who give so much of themselves to help make our health care professionals the best they can be. 

This preceptor spotlight focuses on Dr. Ryan Katchky, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Scarborough Health Network's Education Lead for the Department of Surgery.

What made you decide to become a preceptor? Can you share a bit about your journey to becoming a preceptor?

I've been passionate about teaching from early on. As a medical student, I found myself naturally drawn to supporting junior learners, and that continued into residency, where I taught medical students, junior residents, and off-service colleagues. From the start, I knew I wanted teaching to be a core part of my practice.

Before coming to Scarborough Health Network (SHN), I practiced at London Health Sciences Centre, a major academic teaching hospital. That experience gave me a strong foundation and reaffirmed the importance of education in clinical practice. When I joined SHN, I saw an exciting opportunity to contribute to a hospital that's evolving into a vibrant academic hub, and I wanted to be part of that transformation.

What resources have been instrumental in supporting you as a preceptor?

SHN has been incredibly supportive. There's strong institutional alignment around the value of education, and our leadership genuinely encourages clinicians who are interested in teaching. With the Scarborough Academy of Medicine and Integrated Health set to open soon, there's momentum and investment in growing our academic profile.

I've also had the privilege of working with an outstanding educational team here. They help with everything from learner coordination to program development. As the Education Lead for the Department of Surgery, I've been working closely with leadership to create a vision for surgical education that's well-integrated into the hospital's clinical environment. We're thinking about how to embed education thoughtfully – considering space, workflow, and how to make it a win-win for both preceptors and learners.

What is the approach you take with the learners you support?

I take a tailored approach. Every learner is at a different stage and has different goals, so I adapt accordingly. A senior resident interested in pediatric orthopedics, for example, will have a very different experience from a second-year medical student exploring different clinical areas. My aim is always to provide a supportive, meaningful learning experience that reflects the realities of clinical practice.

I also emphasize universal values – professionalism, reliability, and recognizing the privilege we have as physicians. In pediatric orthopedics, the work we do can be life-changing and, at times, life-saving. I try to instill a sense of that responsibility and privilege in every learner I work with.

What do you like most about this role? Can you share a memorable experience you had with a learner?

Working with learners brings incredible energy. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives are really motivating – it keeps the work dynamic and engaging. I also find it deeply rewarding to help shape the next generation of physicians.

One experience that stands out was mentoring a medical student early in their clinical training who later matched into a surgical residency. Watching their growth and success was a proud, full-circle moment. It's experiences like that that really highlight the long-term impact of being a preceptor.

What advice or words of encouragement do you have for others who may be interested in taking on this role?

I would absolutely encourage others to get involved in teaching. It's incredibly fulfilling – not just for the learners, but for you as a clinician. Learners help keep you sharp, engaged, and reflective about your own practice.

At the end of the day, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. It's an opportunity to give back, stay inspired, and help shape the future of medicine.​