Pictured: Radiography Faculty and Students. Photo courtesy of SCF.

When most of us think about lifesaving healthcare, we picture doctors and nurses. But behind nearly every diagnosis is an image: an X-ray, a CT scan, or a surgical image confirming that a plate or prosthesis is placed exactly right. That critical work is made possible by radiographers, and at State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF), students are preparing to step into that essential role with confidence.

Medical imaging professionals are often unseen, yet indispensable. From the mammogram that helps detect breast cancer early to trauma X-rays in the emergency room, to imaging that guides surgeons in the operating room, radiographers are there at some of life’s most urgent and vulnerable moments.

They are often among the first caregivers a patient meets in the emergency department. They operate advanced digital imaging equipment, position patients carefully for each exam, and practice strict radiation safety to ensure the lowest dose possible while maintaining high image quality. Just as important, they provide reassurance and compassion when patients need it most.

At SCF, the Radiography program is led by Patrick Patterson, MS, RT(R)(N), CNMT, who has dedicated 36 years to building a program known for excellence across the region. Under his leadership, the program blends strong academics, hands-on laboratory training, and real-world clinical experience.

Students learn the science behind imaging, including radiographic physics, image formation, digital technology, radiation protection, and precise patient positioning. They study in the classroom and then immediately apply what they learn in energized, state-of-the-art laboratories using fully functional imaging equipment and lifelike phantoms.

Today, students train on equipment that rivals, and in some cases exceeds, what they will encounter in local hospitals. These recent upgrades ensure graduates are comfortable with modern digital imaging systems from day one on the job.

Clinical education brings everything together. SCF partners with 11 area hospitals and imaging centers, where students rotate through a wide range of settings, from outpatient centers to trauma hospitals. The program is competency-based, meaning students move from direct supervision to independent performance as they demonstrate mastery and confidence.

The results are impressive. Over the past decade, SCF radiography students have achieved a 97% first-attempt pass rate on the national certification exam. The program has earned the maximum eight-year accreditation award for three consecutive cycles with no citations. For the past four years, graduates have achieved 100% job placement.

Employers actively seek SCF graduates. Recent graduate Lindsay, now working at HCA Doctors Hospital in Sarasota, describes the experience this way: “The standards in this program are so high.” She added, “I could just go in and focus on all the aspects of HCA because I completely felt confident in myself and my skills.” Lindsay completed nine clinical rotations and received nine job offers. She also shared, “I sincerely say this, it is rigorous, it is hard, it is demanding, but it sets you up to be a professional within this field of radiologic technology.”

First-year student Autumn has already seen her confidence grow. “The professors do an amazing job preparing for clinic,” she said. Reflecting on her hospital experience, she added, “I would never have expected my fifth day into a hospital to just jump right into doing all exams.”

Demand for the program remains strong. SCF accepts 17 students each year, with applications far exceeding available seats. As healthcare continues to grow across Manatee and Sarasota counties, so does the need for highly skilled imaging professionals.

For more than six decades, SCF’s Radiography faculty have built a program that not only prepares skilled imaging professionals but also strengthens the region’s healthcare workforce.

The impact is clear: trusted graduates, sought by employers, caring for our community every single day. In healthcare, images save lives. At SCF, radiographers are trained to ensure those images, and the care behind them, make a difference.

For more information about SCF’s Radiography program, visit SCF.edu.

Tommy Gregory, J.D., is the President of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

Pictured: Radiography Faculty and Students. Photo courtesy of SCF.