Radiologic Technologist

Jordan Keyser is a radiologic technologist, also known as a “rad tech,” and works at Cass County Memorial Hospital. A radiologic technologist takes x-rays of patients receiving or removing “hardware.” After an x-ray is taken, the radiologist determines what the issue is.

Two to four years of college are required to be a rad tech, depending on whether an Associates or Bachelors degree is the goal. Keyser graduated from Treynor High School and attended Clarkson College in Omaha.

“If you like a challenge on a daily basis, this would be a good thing to do,” Keyser said. Usually, a rad tech will work eight, 10 or 12-hour shifts. When on call for the night, it’s required to stay within 20 miles of the hospital, and those that live more than 20 miles away have to spend the night in the hospital.

This career requires people that are “effective communicator(s), active listener(s)” and have “problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills.” In Iowa, the median pay for a rad tech is $50,000 but could be higher or lower depending on modalities.

Sophomore Hannah Carlson said, “This seems like a really fun and interesting job.”