TRA Medical Imaging Foundation awards Bates Technical College MRI students scholarships

Posted: March 23, 2026

Regional investment supports Pierce County’s diagnostic imaging workforce. 

Three students in Bates Technical College’s MRI Technology program recently received $7,500 each in scholarships from the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation as part of a $150,000 regional workforce investment in 2026. 

The recipients are among 23 students across three regional colleges who received support in radiologic technology, diagnostic medical sonography and MRI technology programs, fields that play a vital role in diagnosing illness, guiding treatment and improving patient outcomes across the region. The funds help keep students in school, removing financial barriers so they can focus on building the specialized skills needed to support the region’s health care workforce. 

“Our MRI Technology program and its strong partnerships play an important role in preparing future health care professionals who will support and uplift our community,” said Sharon Rivera, dean of instruction at the Downtown Campus. “We are grateful to the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation for their generous support and proud to recognize our three scholarship recipients, whose hard work and promise reflect the values of this program.” 

The college’s MRI Technology program, which opened fall 2025, plays an important role in strengthening Pierce County’s medical imaging workforce. With demand for advanced diagnostic services rising, this program helps ensure that hospitals and clinics have access to highly trained professionals. 

By supporting students pursuing advanced specialization, the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation helps prepare the next generation of imaging professionals while keeping skilled talent in the communities where it is needed most. 

“Bates Technical College’s MRI program strengthens our region’s ability to provide advanced diagnostic care,” said Bart Thompson, imaging services manager at MultiCare Health System. “Investing in these students ensures that specialized imaging services remain accessible within our community.” 

Investments like this allow Bates Technical College and its partners to help strengthen the health care workforce pipeline and create new opportunities for students to build careers that serve their communities. 

The TRA Medical Imaging Foundation plans to continue expanding scholarship opportunities in the upcoming fall cycle. 

For more information about the TRA Medical Imaging Foundation, visit https://www.tramedicalimagingfoundation.org. To learn more about TRA Medical Imaging Foundation scholars, visit https://www.tramedicalimagingfoundation.org/education-scholarship-recipients. To learn more about Bates Technical College’s MRI Technology program, visit batestech.edu/MRI-Technology. 

 

Photo of TRA MRI Technology scholarship recipients for the Bates Technical College MRI Technology program.

Student names left to right: Emily Burmester, Dastan Gajamer, and Elizabeth Viengxay.