Building a Career in Medical Imaging at BCHS

Sometimes the path to your future begins in a place that's already familiar.

For Aneesa Jayawardena, that path started at Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) as a high school co-op student in the Diagnostic Imaging Department. What began as an opportunity to explore healthcare quickly grew into a passion for medical imaging—and ultimately led her back to BCHS as a Medical Radiation Technologist (MRT).

Today, Aneesa plays an essential role in helping patients receive timely diagnoses and care.

"As an MRT at BCHS, we provide diagnostic imaging for patients throughout the hospital," she explains. "This includes portable X-rays for patients who are unable to come to the department, as well as imaging in the operating room during surgeries. It's a very rewarding career, and I'm passionate about the work I do."

Returning to BCHS after completing her education felt like coming full circle.

"My career journey began as a high school co-op student in the Imaging Department, where I was inspired to become an MRT," she says. "After completing my education, I returned to BCHS for my clinical placement. Those experiences confirmed that BCHS was where I wanted to begin my career."

Since joining the team, Aneesa has grown not only as a healthcare professional, but also as a compassionate caregiver. "Working at BCHS has given me a strong foundation to begin my career and grow professionally," she says. "Personally, it has taught me the importance of helping patients feel supported and well cared for."

Aneesa also credits the people around her for helping shape her journey. During her clinical placement, one mentor in particular made a lasting impression.

"My clinical placement coordinator, Leah, had a significant impact on my career," she says. "She was always patient, supportive and encouraging, and she helped me grow into the technologist I am today."

While every day brings new challenges and opportunities, it's the impact her work has on patients that continues to inspire her. "One of my proudest moments is knowing that the diagnostic images I take help doctors diagnose and treat patients," Aneesa says. "Being able to care for my patients and make a positive difference reminds me that I'm in the right career."

For those considering a career in medical imaging, Aneesa has no hesitation in recommending the profession.

"I would absolutely encourage someone to pursue a career as an MRT," she says. "It's a rewarding profession where you have the opportunity to make a difference every day, and there's a growing need for MRTs."

She also believes BCHS is an ideal place for anyone beginning their healthcare career.

"I would recommend BCHS because it's a welcoming, community-based hospital with a supportive team," she says. "It gave me a strong start to my career, and it's a great place to learn and grow."

Her advice to future staff is simple but meaningful: "Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn from the technologists around you. Everyone is willing to help, and every technologist has their own tips, tricks and experiences to share."

From a curious high school co-op student to a dedicated MRT, Aneesa's journey shows how curiosity, mentorship and continuous learning can shape a meaningful career.

Chase your curiosity today and see where your adventure begins at BCHS: www.bchsys.org/careers.