A Journey of Purpose: Celebrating CT Technologist, Kantra J.
Meet Kantra J., a dedicated CT Technologist and one of our celebrated Travelers of the Month. With 18 years in radiology and seven years as a travel professional, Kantra brings a wealth of experience, a passion for her work, and an inspiring attitude to every assignment. Her journey is a powerful example of how a healthcare career can evolve, offering new opportunities for growth, connection, and personal discovery.
Kantra’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and a deep love for her profession. We had the chance to sit down with her to learn more about her motivations, her most memorable experiences, and the wisdom she's gained along the way.
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The Inspiration Behind a Traveling Career
For many, the decision to pursue a travel healthcare career stems from a desire for adventure. For Kantra, it was also about embracing a new chapter in her life. As a mother of three, extensive travel was a luxury her family couldn't often afford. When her children went off to college, she saw a perfect opportunity to explore the country while continuing the work she loved.
“This was a perfect opportunity for me to get to travel,” she explains. The motivation to continue comes from a combination of factors. "Just the love of learning and meeting new people," she shares, along with the financial benefits that a traveling career provides. This blend of personal and professional reward keeps her moving forward.
The Power of Connection and Teamwork
A successful travel assignment is about more than just clinical skills; it's about integrating into a new team and becoming a valuable contributor. Kantra enters every facility with a clear mindset: "I am there to be a part of the team and to help in any area where there is a need."
This collaborative spirit has been a cornerstone of her success. By showing up authentically and demonstrating her passion for her work, she has built lasting relationships. "I absolutely love what I do, and it is reflected in my work," she says. This approach has not only made her a valued team member but has also led to great friendships and strong professional references over her seven years of traveling. The most rewarding part? "Knowing that my knowledge, skill, and work ethic were appreciated."
Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned
With 17 travel assignments under her belt, Kantra has a rich collection of experiences. When asked about one that stands out, she fondly remembers her time in California. "I will have to say the most memorable assignment has to be San Diego because of the location," she recalls. "It was absolutely beautiful, and the food was amazing there."
Of course, each new assignment comes with its own set of challenges. Kantra’s approach to navigating unfamiliar environments is grounded in faith and a practical mindset. "I pray, pray and pray," she laughs. "And take one day at a time and one circumstance at a time." She reminds herself that even the toughest assignments are temporary. "If it becomes too challenging, I just know that there is an end in sight—it's only 13 weeks."
This perspective has helped her discover a profound personal strength. Traveling has taught her that she is stronger than she gives herself credit for. "Once I faced my fears head-on," she shares, "I have had some of the most incredible experiences of my life."
A Passion for CT Technology
Kantra's enthusiasm for her specialty is contagious. What does she love about being a CT Technologist? "Everything!" she exclaims. She appreciates the fast-paced nature of her interactions with patients and is fascinated by the technology itself.
"Seeing the evolution of the scanners... it keeps me motivated seeing how medicine has changed due to the advancement of imaging," she explains. This constant innovation fuels her passion and keeps her engaged and excited about her role in patient care.
Advice for Aspiring Travelers
For those considering a career in travel healthcare, Kantra offers simple yet powerful advice. Her tips are a reflection of the lessons she has learned on her own journey:
- Be open to learning: Every new facility is an opportunity to expand your skills.
- Understand your purpose: Remember why you are there—to support the team and provide excellent care.
- Enjoy the journey: Embrace the unique experiences and personal growth that come with each assignment.
Kantra Johnson’s story is a testament to the incredible opportunities a travel healthcare career can offer. Her dedication to her patients, her commitment to teamwork, and her positive outlook make her a true role model in the field. We are proud to celebrate her as one of our outstanding Travelers of the Month.
