HCTC's new diagnostic medical sonography instructor was saved by sonographer in infancy

Sarah Rios recently began as the instructor for diagnostic medical sonography at Hazard Community & Technical College (HCTC). Rios' connection to HCTC dates to her time as a dual-credit student at Hazard High School.

"By the time I graduated from Hazard [High School] in May 2014, I was ready to apply to the radiography program," she said. "My dual-credit classes helped me prepare for that experience."

The regional radiography program is a collaboration between HCTC and Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College. After completing her radiography degree in 2017, Rios continued her education and became a sonographer. She ultimately earned her bachelor's degree in imaging science from Morehead State University.

"I decided to earn my four-year degree because I wanted to work as a sonographer," she said. "This profession is personal for me."

At birth, a sonographer identified Rios' congenital heart defect. At three days old, she had her first open heart surgery, followed by one at six weeks and six months old. In 2022, she had her fourth and most recent surgery.

"The sonographer who caught my heart defect saved my life. I know how important this job is because I wouldn't be here without her," Rios said. "It's really awesome that I get to help people join this profession. Students need experience and knowledge so that they can identify their patients' needs."

Her desire to assist students in acquiring experience and knowledge also comes from her experience. After completing her bachelor's degree, Rios began working at a level-one trauma center in Lexington, Ky.

"Working at a hospital made me a better scanner. I've done a little bit of everything, from scanning for kidney and liver transplant patients to neonatal patients," she said. "I want my students to feel comfortable doing what I did when I entered the field, challenge themselves to do hard work and pursue exciting job opportunities."

Rios explained that the diagnostic medical sonography program at HCTC focuses primarily on general and vascular sonography, preparing students to capture images of abdominal organs, aneurysms and related parts, as well as images of pregnancies throughout their duration.

Rios lives in Hazard with her husband of six years, Robert, and her four-year-old daughter, Aria. 

The diagnostic medical sonography program application for the Fall 2025 semester closes on Oct. 15. For more information, visit the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program webpage. You may also contact Rios by phone at (606) 487-3572 or email srios0015@kctcs.edu.