My career: radiologic Technologist The primary role of a radiologic technologist (also called an x-ray technologist or radiographer) is using x-ray equipment to produce images of tissues, organs, bones, and vessels and administering radiation therapy treatments. Radiologic technologists can also specialize in specific areas of the radiology field such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), sonography, mammography, computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy. Specializing in one or more areas can improve employment opportunities and earning potential. https://www.radiologyschools411.com/careers/radiologic-technologist/

Education and training Although education requirements vary by state, an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree are the most common educational routes for radiologic technologists. Most postsecondary education programs in radiography include theoretical studies in the classroom along with on-site clinical training. The typical curriculum usually involves anatomy, pathology, patient care, radiation physics and of course, image evaluation. As they continue their training and education, most radiology technologists will choose to specialize in a particular diagnostic test, such as mammography or MRI. Once graduating from an accredited college, most radiologic technologists must be licensed to work in the profession. The requirements for licensing are set by state health boards and differ from state to state. However, in most cases, in order to obtain a state license, technologists must complete an approved radiology program and pass a state exam or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification exam. Individuals who earn the main credential from the ARRT are known as Registered Technologists. https://www.radiologyschools411.com/careers/radiologic-technologist/

Opportunities of advancements The job of a radiologic technologist is tedious, yet it is rewarding with a lot of room for advancement. Radiologic technologist desiring to make a technical career of this profession can seek to apply as a Clinical Instructor or a program director. A radiologic technologist has many options available to advance his career.  Spending one to two years in his role as a radiologic technologist prior to a entering a special modality program will increase his chance of success. The radiology technician works with traditional x-ray machines to produce internal images. They work with many different types of machines, and can progress in this field by specializing in the occupation to become instructors or directors in radiologic technology educational programs. Other technologists may take jobs as sales representatives or instructors with equipment manufacturers. https://www.radiologyschools411.com/careers/radiologic-technologist/

Salary and benefits In some cases, a technician can enter the workforce with a certification only, although many also begin with an associate degree. A technologist, on the other hand, begins with an associate degree and often has a bachelor's degree. Through connections made on the job along with additional training and education, radiology technicians often become technologists. Technologists have an upward career trajectory as well, typically becoming MRI technologists, radiation therapists or even moving into a different medical field altogether. The median annual Medical Technologist (ASCP) salary is $65,670, as of March 31, 2017, with a range usually between $60,170-$73,246, however this can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. https://www.fortis.edu/blog/healthcare/radiology-technician-salary-and-other-benefits/id/3260 www1.salary.com/Medical-Technologist- ASCP-Salary.html

Aptitudes and values required The ability required for you is to pay attention to detail, the ability to work by your self and as part of a medical team of specialists, excellent communication skills, able to work well in stressful situations, and more importantly the real desire to help patients get better. Those aptitudes and abilities are beneficial to my career.