It’s easy to see why diagnostic imaging is such a popular career choice: it offers job stability, room for growth, competitive pay, and a rewarding mix of technological expertise and human connection. But there’s not just one way to enter or excel in the field. Here are three common pathways in medical imaging and how Providence supports caregivers in these vital roles.

1. Starting as a transporter or radiology assistant

It’s not uncommon for diagnostic imaging caregivers to begin their healthcare careers as patient transporters, moving patients safely throughout the hospital by wheelchair or stretcher. Some hospitals have dedicated radiology assistants who handle patient transport to and from the radiology department. The path offers many benefits to those interested in a medical imaging career, including:

• Entry-level access: Get your foot in the door—an ideal launching pad for your healthcare career.
• Hands-on patient care: Gain valuable experience in patient handling.
• Facility familiarity: Learn the layout and protocols of the medical system and imaging department.
• Professional networking: Build rapport and learn directly from seasoned imaging caregivers.
• Observation hours: Acquire volunteer or observation hours needed for admission to an accredited radiologic technology program.

Most programs are offsite, but caregivers in Texas and New Mexico have the option of applying to the Covenant School of Radiography, a 20‑month program that blends classroom learning, lab work, and clinical rotations to prepare students for ARRT certification and primary radiography licensure. Students gain hands‑on experience across multiple imaging areas, including diagnostic X‑ray, CT, MRI, interventional radiology, surgery and more.

2. From X-ray technologist to specialist

X-ray technologists are often the first imaging caregivers a patient meets, and their work is critical to swift diagnoses and data-driven plans of care. For many radiologic technologists, X-ray is the gateway to specialization in another imaging modality. Once certified, technologists can cross-train or take additional coursework to focus on:

• CT, providing three-dimensional X-ray images
• Fluoroscopy, providing moving X-ray images
• Ultrasound, using sound waves to create pictures
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using magnets to create images
• Interventional radiology, combining X-ray and minimally invasive surgery

Some imaging specialties, such as sonography, have their own direct entry pathways and offer a vast array of specialization opportunities, such as pediatric sonography, musculoskeletal imaging or breast sonography.

“As a Cardiovascular Sonographer, I serve as the eyes and hands of cardiologists,” says Maureen, who works with us in Eureka, California. “What excites me about coming to work is the opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives. I try to provide imaging that can tell a story to help diagnose and guide treatment. Knowing that my work can help put someone on the path to better health gives me a strong sense of purpose every day.”

3. From imaging technologist to leader

For caregivers who aspire to run a department or beyond, we offer the Providence Leadership Academy. Individual contributors who seek a people leadership role can pursue development journeys that combine formal courses, self-reflection, hands-on practice and guidance from mentors, tailored to their needs. This personalized approach helps leaders stay agile and take on new challenges and opportunities as they come.

Brian, Manager of Diagnostic Imaging in Mission Hills, California, says, “I had a lot of opportunity for growth here. I started as a radiology technologist, transitioned to a CT technologist, then to a CT lead, then to an imaging supervisor, and am now in my current role as imaging manager.” Along the way, he was supported by his entire team, both managers and fellow techs. “We are like family here,” he shares. “The way the technologists come together to help each other out, I have never seen anywhere else.”

Growth, no matter which path leads you here

We’re passionate about career growth for every imaging caregiver. We partner with you to achieve your highest personal career aspirations and realize your full potential by offering:

• Continuing education & tuition reimbursement: Access ongoing learning, with tuition reimbursement included in union contracts.
• Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from experienced technologists.
• Cross-training: Expand your skills through available cross-training opportunities.
• Leading-edge technology: Work with state-of-the-art imaging equipment.
• Wellness support: Prioritize your mental and physical health so you can thrive.

Start or continue your imaging career at Providence

At Providence, we recognize that our imaging teams are essential to delivering high-quality care. If you’re looking for a career that blends science, technology and direct patient interaction, view all diagnostic imaging jobs. Or, if you’re not ready to apply, join our Talent Network to keep in touch and hear stories from the technologists who serve our communities across our seven-state footprint.

In the meantime, here are more articles about working in medical imaging at Providence:

• Accelerate your diagnostic imaging career in California
• Imaging in Alaska: Three radiology caregivers share their Providence career journeys
• A radiology manager’s career journey at Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Montana
• Pursue your passion in radiology in picturesque Hood River
• Our diagnostic imaging teams put the rad in radiology