Attending RSNA

RSNA 2024

I was thrilled to learn I was selected as a 2024 RSNA Ambassador for Technical Exhibits. For those unfamiliar, RSNA (Radiological Society of North America) is the pinnacle event for anyone in the radiology field. If you’ve never attended, let me tell you—it’s an experience like no other. Having attended as part of a corporate technical exhibitor team in the past, I can confidently say it’s both inspiring and career-affirming. As part of the technical exhibit ambassador team, we created a welcoming and enjoyable environment for everyone, ensuring the event remains as remarkable as ever.

For 40 consecutive years, RSNA has been held in Chicago, bringing together the brightest minds in radiology from across the globe. It’s a showcase of innovation, with over 400,000 square feet of exhibit space dedicated to cutting-edge imaging technology, system applications, and hands-on demos. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role was meeting first-time exhibitors and witnessing their excitement as they stepped into this incredible space. There’s an energy and enthusiasm that’s truly contagious, and I was excited to be a part of it this year.

Attending RSNA As A Radiologic Professional 

​While at RSNA, I welcomed new exhibitors from China, Canada, and Ghana. Witnessing groundbreaking technology in action was fascinating, as was seeing systems designed to process large data sets with incredible speed and CT parts engineered to enhance equipment performance. I also connected with vendors who have spent years establishing themselves outside North America and are now making strides to expand globally. These encounters were eye-opening and educational, highlighting the innovation and collaboration that define the radiology industry.

RSNA draws a diverse audience, including physicians, residents, physicists, scientists, management professionals, and imaging specialists. While much of the focus is on physicians, radiologic technologists also stand to gain significant benefits. The event offers something valuable for technologists, regardless of their career stage.

One piece of advice that has stayed with me—courtesy of an old professor—is to always have your elevator pitch ready. When you’re at an event as dynamic as RSNA, brief but meaningful conversations can open unexpected doors. Whether you’re networking with a vendor, chatting with a fellow technologist, or exchanging insights with an industry leader, these moments can lead to opportunities that shape your career.

National Conferences & Tradeshows

Imaging events are hosted across North America, offering incredible opportunities for radiologic technologists and aspiring leaders to grow and connect. Navigating Radiologic Career Guide highlights some of the most noteworthy events and provides additional resources to support your career advancement. If attending in person isn’t feasible, many associations and societies now offer virtual meetings, on-demand services, and a wide array of online courses to enhance your professional development. Something to consider for your career milestones! 

Radiologic Technologist Attendees And What RSNA Has To Offer 

This year, RSNA offered 40 ARRT credits, with engaging lecture topics such as Breaking Down the Barriers of Quality Control (ASRT), Artificial Intelligence in Radiology: Exploring the Radiologic Technologist's Role (ASRT), and A Profession Fit for the Future: Educating the Future Imaging Technologist/Radiographer Workforce (RSNA Sponsored). For many technologists, continuing education maintenance often comes through articles and academic texts followed by testing. But at RSNA, you get something more: the chance to immerse yourself in an energetic, dynamic environment that combines education, networking, and fun—all in one unforgettable experience.​

You might wonder, “Is it cost-effective?” With thoughtful planning, sponsorship opportunities, and a commitment to investing in yourself, the answer is a resounding yes. If you’re passionate about your radiologic career, take the time to set meaningful milestones and explore new ways to grow. There’s a world of opportunities waiting, and what better way to embrace the future of radiology than by seeing it unfold at various imagining conferences.

Staying Connected

RSNA prepares for its next annual meeting, which attendees can conveniently plan while at the present show. The information center is a great place to stop before ending your trip. You can also check out their website for everything you need to know about annual meetings. Innovation in the radiology industry is here to stay. Explore the RSNA site with its vast and in-depth resources to stay in the know.​

A few ways to stay informed within the radiology industry are to subscribe to newsletters, check out radiology journals, and follow relevant social media pages. Since we are on the topic of RSNA, one of radiology's leading newsletters The Imaging Wire provides extensive coverage of RSNA and its various highlights. Imaging societies connected to radiologic professionals and their careers provide resources on their websites that may include but are not limited to conference events, professional development courses, and continuing education units.

My nineteen years of witnessing companies deliver products to improve patient care, enhance image quality, increase processing time, and intelligent platform integrations continue to solidify that a radiology career was an excellent choice!