Briana Pirogowicz, RT(R)(MR)
Briana Pirogowicz, RT(R)(MR), is a dedicated X-Ray and MRI Technologist based in Canton, Ohio. With eight years of experience in radiology and seven years specializing in MRI, she has cultivated expertise in neuroimaging, musculoskeletal studies, breast and cardiac imaging, and breast biopsies. Briana currently works part-time at a busy hospital, performing a wide range of inpatient and outpatient scans, and also provides PRN coverage at an orthopedic office, gaining valuable experience in both hospital and outpatient settings.
Briana’s path into radiology began with hands-on patient care as a state-tested nursing assistant (STNA) in nursing homes and home healthcare. Although initially considering nursing, she discovered a passion for medical imaging after shadowing X-ray and ultrasound procedures, finding the combination of technical skill and patient interaction highly rewarding. She began her career in X-ray, continued her education with a one-year MRI program, and transitioned to MRI, where she has thrived, developing a reputation for professionalism, precision, and empathy in patient care.
Committed to lifelong learning and holistic healthcare, Briana is now exploring a return to nursing school to study holistic and homeopathic medicine, aiming to broaden her impact on patient well-being. Her professional philosophy emphasizes dignity, empathy, and high-quality imaging, ensuring every patient feels supported and respected. Briana takes pride in her self-directed education, her adaptability across diverse clinical settings, and her ongoing dedication to advancing both her technical expertise and the patient experience.
• State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA)
• Kent State University at Ashtabula - AAS
• Radiologic Technologist
• Featured as Influential Woman 2026
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible people I work with. Mentors like my “work mom,” Denise, and experienced colleagues have guided me with their knowledge and constructive feedback. Working alongside strong, career-driven women has shaped my growth both professionally and personally. Being part of such a supportive community has shown me that with the right guidance and encouragement, we can achieve extraordinary things.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering the field that radiology is an excellent career with tremendous opportunities for growth and specialization. There are many branches—CT, MRI, ultrasound, PET, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy—so if one area doesn’t resonate, you can cross-train or explore another. It’s a great field if you enjoy helping and comforting patients while working with cutting-edge imaging technology. The flexibility in schedules, from inpatient to outpatient settings, makes it even more appealing. Radiology is essential—we are the eyes that help diagnose and treat patients.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in radiology is the variety of subfields and the ability to cross-train, which allows for continuous learning and career growth. At the same time, the field presents challenges, including the emotional toll of caring for very sick patients and the ongoing need to balance empathy with professional detachment. Additionally, managing work-life balance, particularly with family responsibilities, is an important and sometimes difficult aspect of the profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy, compassion, and respect for human dignity are core to both my work and personal life. Providing basic care and connecting with patients with kindness is essential, while maintaining professional boundaries allows me to give the best care without judgment. Balancing compassion with resilience helps me stay grounded and effective in healthcare.