Every November, the medical imaging community pauses to say something that doesn’t get said often enough: thank you. National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW) honors the radiologic technologists who help patients and care teams get the images they need. At the Center for Allied Health Education (CAHE), we’re proud to celebrate the rad techs who trained with us and the ones who will.
When is NRTW 2026?
According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), NRTW 2026 runs November 8–14.
The dates matter. NRTW is celebrated every year during the week of November 8. That date marks the day in 1895 when German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the x-ray. One discovery in a laboratory grew into an entire profession that now touches patient care every day.
This year’s theme: “Radiating Love”
The ASRT’s theme for NRTW 2026 is “Radiating Love.” It honors the compassion, dedication, and commitment of medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals.
We love this theme because it names something patients feel but rarely put into words. The technical skill is essential. What patients often remember most is the person who explained what was happening, eased their nerves, and helped them feel safe.
What rad techs actually do, day to day
If you’re considering a medical imaging career, you might wonder what the job looks like in real life. A radiologic technologist produces diagnostic images like x-rays. A typical day often includes:
- Greeting and preparing patients. This means explaining the exam, answering questions, and putting people at ease.
- Positioning patients safely. The goal is clear images and as much comfort as possible.
- Operating imaging equipment. Techs work with precision and attention to detail.
- Following radiation safety practices. These protect patients, staff, and themselves.
- Working with physicians and care teams. Good teamwork keeps information flowing and patient care moving.
It’s a role that blends science, technology, and human connection. That’s exactly what “Radiating Love” celebrates.
Why the profession matters
Behind many diagnoses and treatment plans is an image, and behind that image is a rad tech. Clear, well-made images help physicians make informed decisions. A calm, caring technologist can turn a stressful appointment into a manageable one.
Rad techs work behind the scenes and right beside patients, often in the same shift. This week is a chance to recognize both sides of that work.
Thank you to our grads and clinical partners
To every CAHE radiography graduate: thank you. You studied hard, showed up for clinical training, and now you bring skill and compassion to patients across the region. We’re proud of you, this week and every week.
We’re also grateful to our clinical partners. CAHE students train at 90+ affiliated clinical sites, where experienced technologists mentor the next generation. Your patience, guidance, and generosity shape our students into confident professionals. This celebration belongs to you too.
How to become a rad tech: CAHE’s Radiography program
Feeling inspired? You don’t have to wait to start building a career in medical imaging.
CAHE has offered fast-track, accredited allied health certificate programs in Brooklyn and Staten Island since 2007. Our Radiography certificate program is designed to get you career-ready with focus and support:
- Length: 22 months (74 weeks)
- Locations: Brooklyn and Staten Island campuses
- Goal: Builds the skills you need to sit for the ARRT radiography exam
- Hands-on learning: Clinical training at 90+ affiliated sites
Whether you’re just starting out or changing careers, our radiography program gives you structure, real-world experience, and a clear path forward. If you want to keep growing later, CAHE also offers programs in Radiation Therapy, Medical Dosimetry, Sonography, Surgical Technology, Paramedic, and Practical Nursing.
Take your next step
This NRTW, celebrate a rad tech who made a difference for you or your family. If you’ve been thinking about joining them, make this the week you take a first step.
Explore the Radiography program at Center for Allied Health Education to see program details. Then use the Request Info form to connect with our admissions team about schedules, requirements, and next steps. We’d love to help you start a career where you can radiate a little love of your own.
Happy National Radiologic Technology Week, rad techs. Thank you for everything you do.
