Empowering the future of radiology: SMH Foundation awards scholarships to local students

Radiology careers sparked by shadowing experience at SMH

After completing a day of shadowing staff at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in November, Allison Arndt said her decision to apply for a radiology program solidified.

“I was fascinated by the machines and the way the technicians operated them,” Arndt said. “I had to learn more.”

As a result, Arndt started her educational journey to become a licensed radiology technologist through Casper College.

Early interest leads to career pursuit

For Izak Aksamit, his interest in science and healthcare started at a young age. He always expressed interest in how the human body functions alongside a desire to help others. In May, Arndt began classes at Casper College to earn his associate degree and work toward becoming a radiology technologist.

Internship sparks career path

Makayla Martinec completed an internship at Sheridan Memorial Hospital, spending time with the radiology team and learning that care teams have a deep impact not only in healthcare but in the community.

“One of the most thought about moments for me was when I was able to go into a surgery and see how the patient was treated putting all faith into the hands of a surgeon,” Martinec said. “This showed me that imaging is more important than I realized, which made me have a deeper understanding within the radiology department. It wasn’t just a single person helping this patient, but it was the whole healthcare team. This experience confirmed something I already knew: healthcare isn’t just about medicine — it’s about relationships, trust and community.”

Scholarships ease the path to success

Now, both Aksamit and Arndt will be able to pursue their educations with less financial burden. Each received a $20,000 scholarship – $5,000 each semester for two years – from the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation to complete their degrees.

“Being chosen for this scholarship means everything to me and reminds me that I have a strong support system as I embark on this new journey,” Arndt said. “I’m deeply passionate about this career path, and feel very lucky that I will be helping people every day. I couldn’t thank the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation enough.”

Aksamit echoed the importance of the scholarship for him.

“Being chosen for the SMH Foundation radiology scholarship means a great deal to me — it’s not only a recognition of my hard work and dedication, but also brings powerful encouragement to continue pursuing excellence in patient care and medical imaging,” Aksamit said. “It reminds me that my goals are supported by a community that values the future of healthcare.”

Martinec noted that her long-term goal is to work in a rural hospital or clinic in Wyoming, perhaps even in Sheridan.

“I want to give back to the place that’s given me so much,” she said.

Meeting a growing community need

A shortage in radiology technicians has grown over the last several years and the job outlook shows the demand continuing to increase.

“Radiologic technologists play a vital role in the patient’s healthcare journey,” said Bryan Opitz, SMH director of professional services. “They capture the diagnostic images that serve as the foundation for timely and accurate care decisions.”

Beyond the image: patient-centered care

Both Arndt and Aksamit noted the impact they hope to make for families and patients as radiology technologists.

“As I am learning in my first week of the program (at Casper), there is so much more to being a radiology technologist than being a ‘picture taker,’”Arndt said.

Aksamit agreed, noting the role he could play in helping to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.

“The ability to use specialized equipment to see inside the human body without invasive procedures is both fascinating and invaluable,” Aksamit said. “I am especially intrigued by how radiologic technologists must combine an understanding of anatomy, physiology and physics with a compassionate, patient-centered approach – especially when working with individuals who may be anxious or in pain.”

Investing in the future of local healthcare

Sheridan Memorial Hospital Chief Development Officer Cody Sinclair celebrated the Foundation’s involvement with the scholarships.

“Scholarships from the SMH Foundation help grow Sheridan Memorial Hospital employees who are dedicated to the hospital’s mission to serve our community with excellent, patient-centered care,” Sinclair said. “Having highly trained staff at Sheridan Memorial Hospital ensures that our family, friends and neighbors get the excellent care they deserve right here at home.”

To support efforts like these and learn more about Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation efforts, visit sheridanhospital.org/foundation or visit with the team at 307.673.2418.