From Open Houses to CT Scans – This Tech Found a Career That Clicked

Like many health care professionals, Jared Stephen’s career journey didn’t begin in a hospital. He was working in real estate when he realized he wanted something more hands-on, meaningful and fast-paced. That moment of reflection led him to attending Northampton Community College’s radiologic technology program and eventually to his current role as a computed tomography (CT) technologist II at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN).

“I knew I wanted to be in health care,” Stephen said, “but not necessarily in a role that required constant direct patient care. Once I started taking classes like biology and anatomy, I got hooked learning about X-ray and then completely fell in love with CT.”

Stephen joined LVHN in 2021 shortly after passing his boards. He had previously trained at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest as a student CT technologist and admits it felt overwhelming at first.

“It was a Level I Trauma Center. Huge. I was nervous,” Stephen admitted. “But I realized very quickly this is where I want to be. The pace, the team, the impact; it’s been a perfect fit.”

From day one, Stephen found support from experienced technologists who were eager to teach. Leaders like Bonnie Korutz, who fostered his drive with a sharp wit and confidence that come naturally with her impressive 30 years of experience. That sense of collaboration and mentorship stuck with him, and now, it’s something he proudly pays forward.

“I help train newer colleagues all the time. Since I started, I’ve helped train at least 10 new team members. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and to be part of that journey,” he says.

Stephen currently works the middle shift as a CT technologist, where he has taken on a leadership role his colleagues naturally look to. Whether it’s walking new hires through scans or teaming up during busy trauma cases, Stephen brings a calm, collected energy that helps the department run smoothly.

“We all know how to flow together. There are about 30 people in our department, and we work like a well-oiled machine,” he said. “We don’t even have to ask. We know what’s needed and we get it done together.”

While he loves the clinical side of CT, including stroke alerts, trauma response and interventional procedures, what really fuels Stephen is making patients feel at ease, especially in moments that are unfamiliar or stressful.

“We serve a large Spanish-speaking population in medical imaging at LVH–Cedar Crest, so I’m always working on retaining my Spanish,” Stephen said. “Even small efforts can make a big difference in helping someone feel safe and understood.”

Stephen’s passion for his work is clear, and so is his pride in where he does it.

“The scanners here are top of the line. That matters. The faster the scan, the better for the patient,” he said fervently. “And the experience I’ve gained here at a Level I Trauma Center will serve me for my entire imaging career.”

But for Stephen, it’s more than equipment and credentials. It’s culture.

“LVHN welcomes you with open arms. We’re eager to teach, but also eager to listen,” he said. “We work with you to understand your schedule, your learning style and how we can best support you.”

Stephen is already planning his next steps, exploring further education and preparing for future leadership roles in imaging. But wherever his journey takes him, he knows he’s building it on a strong foundation.

“If you’re thinking about a career in diagnostic imaging, as an MRI technician, CT or anywhere in radiology, LVHN is the place to be,” Stephen said. “You’ll grow. You’ll learn. And you’ll make a real difference.”