Faculty Development: Cultivating Educators, Advancing Careers, and Lifelong Learning

Colorectal surgeons are naturally positioned to be excellent surgeon educators, with a technically challenging but accessible surgical practice and clinical interactions that challenge the surgeon to be an educator in every sphere of life. We discuss the importance of developing teaching skills, a framework for progress from teacher to master educator, and provide practical guidance for colorectal surgeons wishing to pursue a career trajectory in surgical education. We discuss the importance of scholarship and how to fit it into service work in education, as well as the importance of understanding systems and advocating for the effort of surgeon educators. Ultimately, developing good teaching skills and participating in education scholarship make the colorectal surgeon a lifelong learner and reflective practitioner, better able to connect with patients and colleagues.