Tommy Zhu CDT, TE, instructional resource associate in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics, has earned board certification in Digital Workflow through the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC). According to NBC, Zhu is currently the first and only board-certified Digital Workflow CDT in Iowa.

Zhu completed the Digital Workflow practical examination during the July 2026 remote testing window and recently passed the written examination, completing all requirements for the specialty. Digital Workflow is Zhu’s second Certified Dental Technologist (CDT) specialty, joining his existing certification in Ceramics.

The certification process included a practical examination requiring Zhu to prepare and submit dental models and restorations for evaluation by three board examiners. The examination assesses competency in the digital technologies and processes increasingly used throughout dental laboratory and restorative workflows.

Zhu earned his degree in Restorative Dentistry in 2003 and became a Board Certified Dental Ceramist in 2007. He earned the Technologist (TE) designation in 2008. He currently serves as an instructional resource associate in the Department of Prosthodontics, where his work includes dental laboratory technology, digital dentistry, and supporting the education of prosthodontic residents.