Northside recently celebrated the graduation of its first-ever Radiology Clinical Workforce Program, a transformative 12-week initiative designed to help high-performing employees transition from non-clinical roles into direct patient care. With more than 400 applicants for the first cohort, the program tapped into a deep desire among Northside employees to grow and advance their careers in health care.
The program began in January 2025 and concluded with a graduation ceremony on April 11.
This innovative residency was inspired by a concept started at the Gwinnett campus under Teresa Taylor, manager of women’s imaging. It was created to recognize and elevate team members, particularly those with strong patient interaction skills, by providing them with the tools and training necessary to pursue clinical careers. The program includes rigorous requirements, such as a state-mandated radiation safety course, intensive classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training requiring residents to perform at least 100 bone density exams independently.
Danielle Adams, a radiologic technologist at Northside Cumberland Imaging, led the classroom education while preceptors across Northside’s five hospital campuses oversaw clinical training. The program's success resulted from a strong, collaborative effort by Radiology team members system-wide, coupled with the supervision of April Freeman, program manager of Radiology Clinical Workforce Planning and Development, and Karl Sadler, program director.
"This program has been life-changing for us," said graduate Farah Mukhi. "It's had a huge impact on my life."
"I'm so appreciative of Northside for giving us this opportunity," said graduate Sherry Pratt. "It's so nice to work for an organization that invests back into its staff."
Looking ahead, Northside plans to build on the program's success by developing additional career advancement opportunities within Radiology. Several graduates have already expressed plans to continue their education and pursue careers in medical imaging.
"Thank you for choosing me for this program," said graduate Chelsea Hall. "This is just a stepping stone for my radiology career. After this, I will be preparing for X-ray school. My preceptor and office manager have been supportive, and I love my patients. This has just been a beautiful experience."
This program represents a significant milestone for Northside, setting a new standard for career development and workforce innovation in health care.
Learn more about radiology services at Northside.
Pictured above: From left, adjunct instructor Danielle Adams; residents Katie Langham, Michelle Ransome, Sherry Pratt, Missi Raftelis, Farha Mukhi, Toyie Lee and Chelsea Hall; front row, Ashley Reyes and Katie Starnes.
