Leah Hudkins, RT(R)(MR), MRSO, continues to seek out continuing education opportunities as she reaches new heights in diagnostic imaging. Her education is impressive with an associate degree in radiography, a bachelor’s in medical imaging technology and a master’s in radiologic and imaging sciences.
Hudkins currently serves as the clinical manager of radiology at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. After a recent interview, it is obvious that she is a rising star with unmatched potential.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I am originally from Northern Indiana, near Notre Dame. Now I call sunny Monterey, California my home!
Q: Where did you receive your imaging training/education?
A: I graduated from Indiana University twice, once with an associate degree in radiography and then with a bachelor’s degree in MRI. I obtained my MR safety officer certification in 2020. After working in imaging for nearly a decade, I went back to school again – I can’t seem to stay away! I graduated from California State University with a master’s degree in radiology management in 2023.
Q: How did you first decide to start working in imaging?
A: I was the first person in my family to attend college, and I didn’t have any family working in healthcare. I knew first and foremost that I wanted to help people, and I excelled in science and physics courses. I found the imaging world to be intriguing and fast-paced – perfect for me!
Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
A: The majority of my job satisfaction is derived from two sources. First and foremost is supporting my community, both my team and our patients. Helping people through some of life’s toughest moments is why I entered the healthcare field to begin with. Mentoring my team as they care for our patients and grow in their careers is also an incredibly rewarding experience. Secondly, my internal validation comes from challenging myself in the ever-changing landscape of imaging. It is a wonderful boon to specialize in a field where there are new technologies and skills to learn every day. I always have goals to set my sights on and push myself to achieve.
Q: What do you like most about your position?
A: I flourish in fast-paced, social environments. My hard-working team is a network that supports and magnifies each other’s efforts, creating far more impact in our patients’ lives than any one of us could do alone. I love that I can support these wonderful people and subsequently watch their success and growth, both in their professional and personal lives.
Q: What interests you the most about the imaging field?
A: What we do in imaging is critical in both diagnosis and treatment development for our patients. Our work often determines the trajectory of a patient’s care plan. The physics and skill required to obtain the best exams possible has always kept me interested. Each day brings different and exciting opportunities for us to do our best for our patients.
Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment in your field thus far?
A: As a leader in imaging, my greatest professional accomplishment is the notable increase in employee engagement along with the ability to keep up with consistent volume growth. We have low staff turnover despite multiple large-scale changes over the last two years. My unwavering commitment to clear communication and transparency, paired with adaptability, allows me to connect with my team efficiently and accurately. Our department is now set up for success at a foundational level.
Q: What goals do you have for yourself in the next 5 years?
A: One of the first things that people learn about me is that I need to continually challenge myself, both professionally and personally. I like to look forward to my future goals, of which I have many! To start with, I plan to sit for my CRA credential, complete the final piece of my Lean Six Sigma certification, and begin my doctoral studies in healthcare strategic leadership. I will continue volunteering my time to multiple imaging membership groups, and I will also be sitting on a local leadership committee that focuses on shaping the future of Monterey County.
Fun Facts
Favorite Hobby: SUP (stand-up paddleboarding)
Favorite Show: “Ted Lasso”
Favorite Food: Lasagna
Favorite vacation spot: Anywhere with a beach!
1 Thing on Your Bucket List: I would love to sail the Pacific islands.
Something your co-workers don’t know about you: I live on my boat in the nearby harbor – my backyard is full of otters and seals!
