Just Say “Yes”

Mike Wandling

Just say “yes”. When I think back on my journey that led me to being named the 2025 CDT of the Year it was that three letter word that changed everything for me.

Years ago, I was asked if I had an interest to get involved as a subject matter expert with the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. 


At the time I felt nowhere near qualified to be a SME on anything yet alone in dental technology but I said “yes” anyway and that decision changed my life.



Saying “yes” quickly got me involved with the great people at the NBC. I have contributed to item writings, job task analysis and various other projects including most recently the Digital Workflow Specialty. 


Over the years these projects have allowed me to meet a lot of great people in the industry which gave me inspiration and motivation. This led me to say “yes” to a lot of other opportunities such as owning my own Dental Laboratory, becoming a member of the NBC Board of Trustees and even becoming a Master CDT. None of these things would have been possible if I hadn’t said “yes” all those years ago.



Saying “yes” before you feel qualified can put a lot of pressure on yourself making you feel uncomfortable, but that’s okay. It’s just human nature. In order to grow you have to challenge yourself and do the hard things.



Being named the CDT of the Year for 2025 has been one of my greatest achievements of my life. I feel honored and blessed to have even been considered. 


Thank you for taking the time to read this. I appreciate you. 


Michael Wandling
MBA, Master CDT & 2025 CDT of the Year




*Nominations are now open for next year‘s CDT of the Year.