2 answers
Stephanie
Student
Everett, Washington
1
Question
Updated
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging techs what are 3 things you wish you knew before choosing this career?
I am looking into this career path for my future. I would like to know a little bit more from an MRI tech perspective that's actually in the career filed. I am also wondering where to start? or whats good MRI school. #career #tech #healthcare #medical #MagneticResonanceImagingTech #science #technologist #technicians #MRI
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2 answers
Conrad Reagan Musiime
Biomedical engineer
1
Answer
Kampala, Central Region, Uganda
Updated
Conrad Reagan’s Answer
Hi,
I was impressed by how specific the career path you define for yourself is.
However, I want to think that either you've modelled out the you that you want to be, and not been fully open to the realities of field practice.
If you're not yet already on an undergraduate program, you should consider training in a more general field; particularly biomedical engineering, after which you'd advance to your specialty: MRI.
A biomedical engineer will be authorized in every right to handle technical failures, servicing and among other things; user trainings and preventive maintenance programs for MRI scanners, and a catalogue of all medical equipment.
This doesn't mean that if you're already a graduate in something else, you can't get yourself where you want to be, but most universities and tertiary institutions won't offer a program as specific to your interest as you might want.
Tentatively also, you can search for diplomas and certificates in MRI equipment handling and maintenance, take on such trainings, and passing them would mean a lot to your employer. What they'll be looking for is actually the knowledge (which is about 40% required for the job) and then they'll be willing to narture your skills (to pull upwards to the 80% mark) in this field.
Enroll for a course that will teach you/prepare you for this: what you want to be.
Learn as much as possible about what you want to do
Be willing to do everything to the best of your knowledge, when given the chance
Take the first step today, now if possible.
I was impressed by how specific the career path you define for yourself is.
However, I want to think that either you've modelled out the you that you want to be, and not been fully open to the realities of field practice.
If you're not yet already on an undergraduate program, you should consider training in a more general field; particularly biomedical engineering, after which you'd advance to your specialty: MRI.
A biomedical engineer will be authorized in every right to handle technical failures, servicing and among other things; user trainings and preventive maintenance programs for MRI scanners, and a catalogue of all medical equipment.
This doesn't mean that if you're already a graduate in something else, you can't get yourself where you want to be, but most universities and tertiary institutions won't offer a program as specific to your interest as you might want.
Tentatively also, you can search for diplomas and certificates in MRI equipment handling and maintenance, take on such trainings, and passing them would mean a lot to your employer. What they'll be looking for is actually the knowledge (which is about 40% required for the job) and then they'll be willing to narture your skills (to pull upwards to the 80% mark) in this field.
Conrad Reagan recommends the following next steps:
Stacy Hartkopf
MRI technologist
3
Answers
Aubrey, Texas
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
Hi! These are excellent questions. I have been an MRI technologist for over 9 years, and a radiographer for about 15, now. I am thankful for knowing in advance that having multiple modalities under my belt will help tremendously. I would advise going for both diagnostic radiology and MRI with the ARRT if you are able. Also, having a CT registry will help you go far and make you very competitive in this field. One thing I wish I knew before going in is how to become an MRSO (Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer), as safety is paramount in this field. I recently gained this certification through ABMRS. RiteAid was the best way to prepare, as it guarantees you will pass, also. Explore more than one modality, as it will help you find jobs easier. Sometimes the market for technologists in this field is pretty desperate, but also, there are seasons when it is difficult to find a position if you have just one modality. Look for a program that is connected with both hospitals and clinics. If you are in an area where there's a prestigious organization, try to see who they work with for schools. Also, networking will help to land you a job after school that you will love, but also help with questions you may have along the way. Hope this helps!