The field of radiologic technology has seen a significant increase in demand in recent years, and mammography is no exception. Mammography is an essential tool in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer, which can help save lives. With the demand for mammography services on the rise, the need for skilled and trained professionals in this field has also increased. 

As a response to this need, the Advanced Health Education Center is proud to be affiliated with the GROW! Mammography Scholarship program. GROW!, which stands for Growing Radiologic Opportunities for Women, aims to help supplement the mammography shortage by providing an all-expenses-paid scholarship for AHEC’s Mammography Initial Training program for one radiologic technologist, and one recently graduated radiology student. 

Being a mammography technologist is a rewarding career path. If you want to hear about Michelle Keck’s experience becoming a mammographer, she goes into detail about her journey on our blog. Mammography is a vital screening tool for breast cancer, and its importance cannot be overstated. Early detection is critical, and mammography can help detect breast cancer before any noticeable symptoms arise. This early detection allows for early intervention, which can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery. 

The GROW scholarship program is an excellent opportunity for 2 people in the radiology community to receive high-quality training in mammography. The program covers all expenses, including a meal stipend and airfare/hotel, ensuring that participants can focus entirely on their studies without the added stress of financial concerns. 

The instructors for this program, Cristi Baker and Tonya Taylor, are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about mammography. Their teaching style is unique, and students will receive a hands-on approach that allows them to learn by doing. They are patient and understanding, and our participants are always encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification whenever necessary. 

Cristi Baker, BSRS RT(R)(M), has been a mammographer for over twenty years.  She began her career in mammography at MD Anderson Cancer Center in 1998.  She has experience in QC, as a lead mammographer, with accreditation, biopsies and needle localizations and DEXA.  Cristi is presently a Mammographer at Kelsey Seybold Clinic in Kingwood.  She received her radiography training at Houston Community College and her mammography initial training through AHEC. 

Tonya Taylor, RT(R)(M) also has over 20 years of experience, and she specializes in fixed and mobile radiography, bone densitometry, fluoroscopic and mammography procedures. Before becoming a lead mammography technologist at Kelsey-Seybold, Tonya worked as a radiologic technologist for MEDRelief Staffing and Sadler Clinic. She received her Bachelor of Radiologic Sciences at Midwestern State University. 

The GROW scholarship program is not just an opportunity to receive training in mammography; it is a chance to join a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of others. As a recipient of this scholarship, you will be part of a network of professionals who share your passion for providing the best possible care to patients. Apply for the GROW scholarship today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in mammography! The application will open on June 1^st, but you can look at the essay prompt and other requirements here. If you’d like to receive updates on the scholarship, sign up for our newsletter.