GateWay Community College (GWCC) is excited to announce that Radiologic Technology Program Director, Brad D. Johnson, has been selected to participate in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Space Health Impacts for the NASA Experience (SHINE).
“I am excited to be among the 25 participants selected for this year's NASA SHINE Program,” said Johnson, Radiologic Technology Program Director. “I look forward to working with NASA personnel, physicists, graduate students, faculty from other higher education institutions, and NASA personnel to learn about space radiation, its impact on astronauts' health, and the strategies NASA employs to manage risk. The program will also prepare me for future space radiation research projects. This is an opportunity that will allow me to integrate the health effects of space radiation into GateWay’s Radiologic Technology Program curriculum, offering students a unique insight. I aim to create an engaging and immersive learning experience around space exploration and the risks of space radiation. Understanding the health impacts of radiation exposure and managing that exposure is critical as a radiologic technologist."
SHINE is a virtual NASA program sponsored by the Human Research Program (HRP). HRP’s main objective is to support human space exploration by reducing the risks to human health and performance through a focused program of basic, applied, and operational research. The HRP delves into and addresses the most critical risks to astronaut health and performance stemming from five primary space flight hazards: Space Radiation, Human Health Countermeasures, Exploration Medical Capability, Human Factors and Behavioral Performance, and Research Operations and Integration.
Johnson's commitment to ongoing learning as a subject matter expert and educator in radiation biology, protection, and exposure allows him to offer students the most current and engaging content. Johnson ensures that students have access to the necessary knowledge and skills for success in their careers, including digital imaging through courses, advanced technology, and a state-of-the-art imaging laboratory. His extensive experience as an educator and dedication to radiation science empower students for professional success in radiologic technology.
Johnson’s selection emphasizes GateWay’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge education in radiologic technology. Dr. Amy Diaz, President of GWCC, remarked, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Brad for being selected to participate in NASA’s SHINE Program. As a Radiation Technology Program Director with decades of experience, he brings an abundance of knowledge critical to helping NASA build strategies that protect astronaut health and ensure safe human spaceflight.”
According to the 2023 Talent Attraction Scorecard, Arizona ranked among the top four states for bioscience and health industry job growth. Radiologic technologists are crucial to the healthcare field and comprise a significant portion of its workforce. Employment projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expect an increase of 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
Through dedicated instructors like Brad Johnson, students receive comprehensive training and real-world exposure, positioning them for success in the dynamic field of radiologic technology.
According to BLS occupational employment and wages, students are prepared for success in the healthcare workforce with earning potential between $65,140 and $97,940 annually.
To learn more about GWCC’s Radiologic Technology program, visit gatewaycc.edu/radiologic-technology.