Season 4 | Episode 5 | Brandy Caldwell., MA, R.T.(R) | Program Director at West Georgia Technical College

In Season Four, Episode 5 of The RadTechLife Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Brandy Caldwell, Program Director at West Georgia Technical College. Our conversation revealed her inspiring journey from a small town in North Carolina to becoming a leader in radiologic technology education.

Brandy’s path to radiology wasn’t straightforward. After high school, she found herself working in banking and later as a legal assistant, both stable roles but lacking passion. Despite having a general interest in healthcare, nursing didn’t appeal to her, and she remained unsure of what career to pursue. It was the medical dramas of the 90s that first piqued her interest in radiology. The mystery and significance of X-rays fascinated her, but it wasn't until she learned about a local community college's radiologic technology program that she saw a clear path forward. Enrolling in the program, she met a mentor who inspired her and shaped her vision of what a career in radiology could be.

Brandy's decision to pursue radiologic technology marked a turning point in her life. She left behind her previous roles and dedicated herself to becoming a radiologic technologist, graduating in 2006. As she progressed through her career—starting as a technologist and advancing to chief tech, lead tech, and eventually manager—she encountered the challenges of burnout, evolving technologies, and the demands of patient care. These experiences deepened her understanding of both the technical and human aspects of the field.

In 2020, after earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Brandy transitioned into teaching, fulfilling a long-held goal. Teaching became more than just a career shift—it was a calling. Brandy recognized that the role of an educator wasn’t only about conveying technical knowledge but also about instilling empathy and professionalism. Many students, focused on mastering technical skills, neglected the importance of patient care. Brandy drew from her years of experience to teach that radiologic technology is not merely about “pushing buttons”—it’s about caring for people in their most vulnerable moments.

Brandy’s dedication to teaching began to resonate with her students. They started to grasp the importance of compassion, sharing their own stories of comforting patients and witnessing significant medical moments. This connection between the technical and emotional aspects of radiology became the foundation of her teaching philosophy. Brandy’s passion for radiation biology, in particular, drove her to continually engage her students with real-world examples and clinical wisdom.

Through her work, Brandy has come full circle—once inspired by a mentor, she now serves as a mentor herself, shaping the next generation of radiologic technologists. Her message is clear: radiologic technologists are more than just operators of technology—they are vital caregivers who have the power to change lives through compassion and expertise. Brandy’s journey highlights the transformative power of education, both in her own life and in the lives of her students. She continues to inspire, mentor, and shape the future of radiologic technology.

Are you in the Atlanta area and interested in becoming a Radiologic Technologist?

Don’t miss out on an exciting opportunity—check out the Radiography Program at West Georgia Technical College and apply today! Be sure to mention that Lazar recommended you!

This podcast is sponsored by Radiologix—equipping the next generation of Radiologic Technologists and advocating for our profession every step of the way!