Central Arizona College recently recognized 17 radiologic technology students during a pinning ceremony at its Superstition Mountain Campus in Apache Junction

The special ceremony, held Dec. 11, signifies the completion of an associate of applied science degree in radiologic technology.

Radiographers are critical members of a healthcare team that are called upon to render compassionate patient care, ensure safe radiation protection practices and apply technical knowledge in the operation of specialized imaging equipment used to generate diagnostic images.

CAC’s associate of applied science degree in radiologic technology is a two-year — six sequential trimesters including summers — program that prepares students for entry-level positions as radiographers. The curriculum is designed in accordance with the radiography curriculum established by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Academic courses include radiographic positioning, radiation physics, principles of radiographic exposure, and other specialized topics. The program is designed around a model of classroom and laboratory instruction integrated with hands-on experience in a clinical setting that provides a thorough educational foundation and professional preparation to enter the workforce as an independent practitioner upon graduation.

Following their degree completion, students are eligible to sit for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists examination and they may apply for an Arizona license to practice radiography as a certified radiologic technologist.

Following is a listing of graduates and their hometown:

• Jeffrey Blanco, Conago Park, California;
• Rebecca Bussey, Coolidge;
• Zachary Connor, Rapid City, South Dakota;
• Robert Curtis, Chandler;
• Breanna DeBruler, Thatcher;
• Holly Garcia, Florence;
• Phillip Horton, Peoria;
• Maylene Marchan, Maricopa;
• Loretta McCabe, Cave Creek;
• Jasmine Medina, Casa Grande;
• Kylie Ramirez, Mesa;
• Michelle Rieck, Mesa;
• Stacy Rodriguez, Apache Junction;
• Sara Smith, Kearny;
• De’jon Thompson, Queen Creek;
• Skyler Wiltbank, Mesa; and
• Katherine Wrasper, Mesa.

Editor’s note: Angela Askey is CAC’s executive director of public relations and marketing. Go to centralaz.edu.