Lawson State Community College and UAB Medicine have established a partnership designed to create a pathway for UAB Medicine employees interested in pursuing careers in radiologic technology.
Through the Lawson State Community College Medical Radiologic Technology Program at UAB Medicine, participants can enroll in Lawson State's Associate in Applied Science degree program while completing instructional and clinical training at UAB Hospital. Graduates of the program will commit to working in eligible radiologic technologist positions within UAB Medicine.
The partnership is intended to expand educational opportunities, support career advancement and strengthen Alabama's healthcare workforce by increasing the number of trained radiologic technologists.
"This program provides our students with meaningful clinical experiences in a leading healthcare environment while creating a direct pipeline of highly skilled radiologic technologists," said Sherika Derico, Ed.D., Dean of Health Sciences at Lawson State. "At the same time, it demonstrates how strong academic and healthcare collaborations can advance student success and strengthen Birmingham's healthcare workforce."
UAB Medicine leaders said the initiative creates opportunities for employees seeking professional development while helping address workforce needs in patient care.
"By providing employees with a pathway to pursue careers in radiologic technology, we are creating opportunities for professional growth while helping meet the evolving needs of patient care," said Terri Franklin, director of imaging for UAB Hospital.
The partnership officially launched on Aug. 17, when leaders from Lawson State and UAB Medicine welcomed the inaugural cohort of students during a first-day celebration.
"It is very exciting to see this come together," said Ashley Thomas, director of quality and operations for UAB Hospital Radiology. "This will help us develop competent, skilled and compassionate technologists who are able to operate in a complex health system."
The collaboration represents a joint effort by Lawson State and UAB Medicine to provide hands-on training opportunities while developing a pipeline of healthcare professionals to serve patients across the region.
