Radiologic Technology program showcases new digital imaging equipment

The Radiologic Technology program showcased.  Guests were given a tour of four labs inside the Allied Health Sciences building on the Union Avenue Campus that were upgraded with cutting-edge technology designed to equip students to enter the workforce with a scientific knowledge of today’s advanced technologies.

Pictured inside one of the new radiology labs are: Allied Health Sciences Chair Osborne Burks, President Tracy D. Hall, program coordinator Tracy Freeman Jones, clinic coordinator Delores Thomas-Boland, senior students Carrie Ross and Colin Mattix, and instructor Emily Stinson.

Pictured inside one of the new radiology labs are: Allied Health Sciences Chair Osborne Burks, President Tracy D. Hall, program coordinator Tracy Freeman Jones, clinic coordinator Delores Thomas-Boland, senior students Carrie Ross and Colin Mattix, and instructor Emily Stinson.

President Tracy D. Hall joined Dean of Health and Natural Sciences Evan McHugh, Department Chair of Allied Health Sciences Osborne Burks, instructors, students, and guests for the tours and reception.  

“We are committed to investing in teaching and learning to ensure students have the best experience and training possible,” President Hall said.  The acquisition of the equipment was a collaborative effort that began when McHugh provided President Hall a tour of the labs.  Dr. Hall observed outdated equipment and determined a major overhaul was in order.  “We have outstanding, dedicated faculty and they and our students deserve to work with the best technology out there,” Hall added.

The lab upgrades include the new x-ray digital imaging equipment, plus computer controllers and patient tables that adjust to better position the patient. “This state-of-the-art equipment allows for more precise imaging and faster film processing,” McHugh said. “But more important is that it gives our students the opportunity to train on instruments they will encounter when they enter the workforce.”

Burks agrees. “We are on the cutting edge now,” he said.  “This equipment is what is in the field today – it puts us on a higher plain of competition.”  Burks says the radiology instructors already know how to teach students how to use the new equipment. “Our instructors are working professionals, so they see this equipment every day and they are current on their certifications,” he said.  “Our students will transition into their clinical rotations much easier because what we now have is what they will see in the professional environment.”

Colin Mattix, a senior and Vice President of the Radiology Club, said he has seen similar equipment while training in hospitals. “I’m very excited about our new equipment,” he said.  “This past fall semester, I was at an urgent care clinic and their equipment was almost identical to what we have now.” 

Southwest graduates of the Radiologic Technology A.A.S. degree program are in high demand. Ninety-four percent of 2017 graduates are working in their field of study, according to Southwest Career Services.

For more information about the Radiology Technology Program, click here.

Radiology Club Vice President Colin Mattix and club president Carrie Ross demonstrate how to use the new digital imaging equipment.

Radiology Club Vice President Colin Mattix and Club President Carrie Ross demonstrate how to use the new digital imaging equipment.

Tracy Freeman Jones displays digital images on the computer screen via the new computer controllers.

Tracy Freeman Jones displays digital images on the computer screen via the new computer controllers.

Faculty, staff, student and guests enjoy the open house reception.

Faculty, staff, students and guests enjoy the open house reception.