X-ray imaging can help doctors detect everything from broken bones to cancer, osteoporosis and arthritis. X-rays can also help find foreign objects ingested by toddlers or spot lung conditions such as pneumonia. Radiologic technologists – also known as radiographers – are the professionals who position the human body, adjust the computerized X-ray equipment and take these X-ray images. Radiologic technologists are also careful to protect any parts of a patient’s body that don’t need to be imaged, as there is some concern that X-ray exposure can lead to a greater risk of cancer.

Nearly 60% of radiologic technologists work in hospitals, and for several years, Laura St. George was among them, working as a radiographer with the Baptist Medical Center Beaches in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Now, St. George works as the corporate relations manager at the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

St. George views her time in a clinical setting as rewarding. “Not only do you have the opportunity to have hands-on patient care and guide people through those sometimes scary moments, but you also have the opportunity to learn new technologies from year to year and move into new modalities,” she says.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5.5% employment growth for radiologic technologists between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 12,200 jobs should open up.

The path to becoming a radiologic technologist typically begins with an associate degree, either an Associate of Science or an Associate of Applied Science in radiologic technology or radiography. These programs give students a mix of classroom and clinical experience. Some radiologic technologists enter the field through a hospital-based program instead.

After graduating from a hospital-based program or college program, prospective radiologic technologists likely must become licensed in the state in which they want to practice. Obtaining licensure typically includes graduating from an accredited program and passing a certification exam administered by the state or by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

To maintain their license, radiologic technicians must complete continuing education credits on a two-year basis.