Prescott, Arizona (Dec. 17, 2025) – A group of nine students made history at Yavapai College this month as the first class of graduates of the college’s new Limited X-Ray Machine Operators program.

The nine graduates were feted during a pinning ceremony Dec. 12 at the Prescott Campus.

“You’ve poured your energy, your intellect, and your hearts into this journey. And today, we recognize you not only for what you’ve achieved, but for who you are: compassionate, highly skilled, unshakable professionals,” Yavapai College President Dr. Lisa Rhine said in her welcoming remarks.

“Today, as we pin you and welcome you into this noble profession, know that the world needs exactly what you have become – skilled hands, sharp minds and open hearts,” Dr. Rhine said.

Speaking on behalf of her fellow cohort members, Limited X-ray graduate Nicole Brancati said along with the intense study and practice, she and her classmates learned “something bigger” about healthcare. “Being in healthcare means showing up, not just physically,  mentally and emotionally. It means being steady and calm when patients are scared, or in pain. It means earning trust in minutes. It means bringing humanity to a moment when someone feels vulnerable.”

Brancati said the class learned skills that can be measured and those that can’t: empathy, compassion, communication, confidence, professionalism. “These aren’t just skills. They’re a signature and they’ll carry us far beyond the machines.”

The Limited X-Ray Machine Operators Program was launched in response to industry demand, said Tracy Rogers, Yavapai College Director of Radiology.

“This program was developed as an innovative response to statewide workforce shortages in radiology, following requests from numerous healthcare providers,” Rogers said, adding that after passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography examination, graduates are credentialed to work in urgent cares, medical offices, hospitals and anywhere imaging of chests, extremities and bone-density scans are provided.

Many of the first graduates of the new program are transitioning into the college’s two-year program to complete their Associate of Applied Science in Radiologic Technology, Rogers said.

The next Limited X-Ray cohort begins in June 2026 and applications are now being accepted. For information, visit yc.edu/radiology.

Following are the Limited X-Ray Machine Operators fall 2025 graduates:

Nicole Brancati, Gabriel Carpenter, Jocelyn Dickey, Nicole Gonzalez Beltran, Nicole Kowalczyk, Delaney Mcintosh, Paulina Sotelo Vazquez, Dorothy Tyson and Avery Webb.

Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.