The Triple-Certified Technologist: Fixing Radiology’s 20% Workforce Gap
April 2, 2026
In this episode of Rethink Imaging, host Chris St. John speaks with Chalonda Jones-Thomas, founder of the Thomas Institute of Health Professions, about the urgent need to modernize medical imaging education. As technology outpaces traditional textbooks, Chalonda discusses her pioneering work in creating fully online, simulation-based training programs that serve working parents, rural communities, and active-duty military members.
The medical imaging workforce is facing a critical shortage, with CT tech vacancy rates reaching nearly 20%. Chalonda Jones-Thomas identifies a primary cause for the struggle: a disconnect between outdated textbooks and the rapid advancement of real-world imaging technology. To address this, Chalonda developed the first fully online CT and MRI training programs designed specifically for medical imaging professionals.
The episode explores the operational and pedagogical shifts required to move training into a digital space. Chalonda explains how her programs use video, simulation software, and rigorous checkpoints to ensure students are clinically competent before ever touching a patient. By removing geographical barriers, these programs provide a lifeline for technologists in rural areas and military personnel stationed overseas who need civilian-ready credentials. Chalonda reframes online education not as a "hands-off" experience, but as a flexible, data-driven system that empowers technologists to upskill without putting their lives or careers on hold.
What You’ll Learn:
- The Textbook Lag: Why traditional education materials are falling behind the rapid pace of CT and MRI technology.
- Proving Online Integrity: How simulation software and rigorous assessments won over skeptical radiologists and directors.
- Empowering the Underserved: How online education provides advanced imaging paths for rural technologists and working parents.
- Military-to-Civilian Transition: The role of remote learning in helping military personnel translate their service experience into civilian healthcare careers.
- Modern Workforce Solutions: Why flexible education models are the key to solving the national technologist shortage.
Chapters:
- [05:13] The Textbook Disconnect: Recognizing that technology moves faster than the classroom can keep up.
- [10:38] Validating Online Learning: Implementing assessments and simulations to ensure clinical readiness.
- [14:08] Reaching the Rural Technologist: Providing advanced education to those who cannot travel to a physical campus.
- [15:10] The Military Angle: Helping service members earn certifications while stationed abroad to prepare for civilian entry.
- [21:50] Future Pathways: The development of entry-level gateways like MRI Assistant programs.
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