By John Wallace
UT Southwestern Medical Center Imaging Services Director Ambulatory Imaging Services Robin Eastland, RT(R)(M)(CT) CRA, holds a master’s degree in radiology administration. Her imaging journey began in Amarillo, Texas.
“I grew up in Amarillo, Texas. It is also where I received the best radiography education foundation,” Eastland says. “I received my associate degree from Amarillo College in 1996. I moved out of Amarillo immediately after graduation from the radiography program. Later in my career (2012), I completed my Bachelor of Radiologic Science in the online program at Midwestern State University while still working full-time. Next, in 2014, I completed the Master of Science in Radiologic Science, Radiology Administration from Midwestern State University.
Her health care career began with the idea that she would serve in a different role.
“Initially I planned to go into nursing, but when I was waitlisted for the next group of nursing clinicals, I began to explore other options,” Eastland recalls. “A family member mentioned X-ray. I reached out to my academic advisor. Another student had just declined radiography clinicals at the 11th hour due to a pregnancy. She told me if I could get the program coordinators to sign off by end of day, I could start the program the following week. Challenge accepted!”
“I was admitted to the program with just a few days’ notice and no official application to the program. I feel this was absolutely the path I was meant to take. I did not take the opportunity for granted. I rose to the top of the class with my academic and clinical performance and served as the class president,” she adds.
Her decision continues to pay dividends daily.
“I loved interacting with the patients and their families working to solve the mysteries within their bodies. Later as a supervisor, manager, and director, I enjoy solving problems. Sometimes the problem is refining a process to make things work better for all patients and other times it may be offering potential solutions to an employee that is looking for something new and more challenging,” Eastland shares. “I really like that every day is different and my job touches so many different aspects of how a health care institution operates. Some of those aspects are predictable, but others are things I did not expect to encounter like construction and how to operate and maintain an 18-wheeler for a mobile mammography program.”
She continues to enjoy her career choice.
“I like having the opportunity to share the things I have learned through my career and partnering with others to continue to make our department even better. We are always looking for ways to do things better,” Eastland says.
The imaging field itself is another amazing aspect of her career.
“Imaging is ever-changing. I enjoy the technology and mechanical aspects of equipment,” she says. “Learning how the equipment works and about new emerging technologies and the ways new technology can help operations, patient access and improve patient outcomes.”
Advancing the role of imaging through research is among her greatest accomplishments.
“Earlier in my career, I had the opportunity to serve as a research technologist. In that role I was able to use some of the early 3D mammography and screening breast ultrasound equipment during FDA trial phases. I took pride in being able to offer feedback that could shape the final product that other techs might (and did) use in the future. Those devices have saved many women’s lives. I am glad to have been even a small part of the development,” Eastland says.
As an imaging leader, Eastland wants to pave the road for more imaging professionals to excel.
“I want to continue to grow and learn. My goal for the next 5 years is to be the best and most supportive leader for the team I serve,” she says.
“I approach leadership with humility and compassion. I don’t have all the answers. I often consult others and get feedback from front line staff,” Eastland says. “I like to challenge those around me to look at things from a different point of view and to always keep our focus on the patient. If we do what is best for the patient, we have always done the right thing.”
1. What is the last book you read? “Fearless Organization” by Amy Edmondson
2. Favorite movie? “Step Brothers”
3. What is something most of your coworkers don’t know about you? I was a junior member of a professional ballet company in my teens and I love to assemble Ikea furniture. They are like giant puzzles to me!
4. What is one thing you do every morning to start your day? I like to start the day with positivity and mindfulness. I take the time to smell the fragrance of my shampoo, feel the warm water of the shower, appreciate the sunrise and, most importantly, the joy of that first drink of coffee!
5. Best advice you ever received? It’s good to be uncomfortable. You must be uncomfortable to grow. If you get too comfortable, you are complacent.
6. Who has had the biggest influence on your life? Honestly, my children. When they were younger, they were my drive to climb the career ladder to provide for them. Now as young adults, each of them push me to be a better person in different ways. They inspire me with their lives and their new ideas.
7. What would your superpower be? I would love to be able to see into the future.
8. What are your hobbies? I love all animals, but especially dogs. I like to hang out with my dogs and love to drop into shelters to love on those that are awaiting their forever homes. I also enjoy any type of renovation. Refinishing furniture, painting a room, or even some bigger projects like flooring and tile work or even replacing a toilet. I might have missed my calling as a construction worker.
9. What is your perfect meal? Tex Mex! Chips, queso and salsa any day!
