BridgeValley Community & Technical College has opened a new Radiologic Technology laboratory designed to give students hands-on experience with the equipment and techniques they will use in hospitals and imaging centers.
The technical school celebrated the completion of the laboratory with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its South Charleston campus last Thursday.
School leaders say the new lab allows students to practice radiographic positioning, exposure techniques, radiation protection, patient care procedures and image evaluation under faculty supervision. The equipment and learning environment are designed to mirror modern clinical settings, allowing students to build technical skills and confidence before moving into clinical experiences.
“This laboratory represents an important investment in our students and the future of healthcare in our region,” BridgeValley President Dr. Chris Treadway said. “We're grateful for the support of WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals and the Thomas Foundation, whose commitment to our Radiologic Technology program reflects the value of strong partnerships between education and healthcare.”
The laboratory opening comes as BridgeValley’s Radiologic Technology Program also receives accreditation from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, which recognizes programs that meet established standards for the quality and effectiveness of radiography education.
The new lab is supported in part by WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals. Through the Thomas Foundation, the Radiologic Technology program will receive $40,000 annually for its first three years, for a total of $120,000.
“Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals starts with giving students meaningful opportunities to learn and apply new technology,” said Dr. Greg Rosencrance, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals. “Our partnership with BridgeValley helps connect students’ classroom experiences with the realities of the healthcare workplace.”
Russell Saunders, professor and chair of BridgeValley’s Department of Medical Imaging and program director of Radiologic Technology, said the laboratory gives students a stronger connection between classroom instruction and hands-on training.
“Our students now have an exceptional environment in which to connect classroom instruction with hands-on practice,” Saunders said. “Combined with our accreditation and clinical partnerships, the laboratory will help ensure they are prepared to succeed in clinical education and, ultimately, in the workforce.”
BridgeValley’s clinical partners also include Vandalia Health, Montgomery General Hospital and Boone Memorial Hospital. Students gain experience alongside healthcare professionals through those partnerships as they develop technical, communication and patient-care skills.
Radiologic technologists play a key role in helping diagnose injuries and illnesses through medical imaging. The college said the expanded laboratory, accreditation and clinical partnerships will strengthen its preparation of students for careers in the field.
