Radiation Medicine is built on collaboration. Beyond physicians and physicists, an entire team of specialists plays a vital role in advancing patient care. This series shines a spotlight on those professionals—their responsibilities, their expertise, and the people behind the titles. Our goal is to help you appreciate the depth and diversity of work that makes Radiation Medicine possible. From guiding residency applicants and coordinating clinical trials to ensuring accurate radiation dosing and delivering exceptional nursing care, our faculty and staff cover it all.
This month, we’re excited to introduce Julie Thomas, GME Program Manager for the Radiation Oncology Residency Program, the Department Chair’s Assistant—and our January Expert!
1. What is your title and which areas of the Department of Human Oncology (DHO) do you work within? (clinical, research and/or medical education)?
I am the GME Program Manager for the Radiation Oncology Residency Program and the DHO Chair’s Assistant. I am part of the department administrative staff and a good portion of my time is spent in graduate medical education administration.
2. What drew you to the field?
I took a civil service exam back in 1995 and ended up interviewing for the Radiation Oncology clinic appointment coordinator position. I accepted the job because my grandfather was treated so well by clinic staff in the mid-1980’s during his cancer treatment and I thought I could pay that forward to other patients. I was at the front desk for three years, then served as the DHO physics administrative assistant for six years and now have been in my current position for 21 years.
3. What is something you look forward to in your job every day, week, month or year? What’s your favorite part?
I look forward to helping people with the tasks I perform, especially finding the answers to questions that I am asked. I enjoy sharing knowledge with the other administrative staff. There is a great sense of accomplishment every fall/winter when the faculty promotion dossiers are submitted. It’s also exciting to meet the residency program applicants every winter during interviews. My goal every day is to have a positive impact on those with whom I have contact.
4. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Spending weekends at my husband’s family’s cottage near Minocqua, playing trivia with our son’s team, and reading. Soon we’ll be enjoying time with our first grandchild who will arrive by the end of January!
5. What is your favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
I’ve learned from many people in my life the importance of showing up, doing your best and leaving things a little better than you found them.
➡ Follow along as we feature a new expert every other month. Don’t miss the chance to learn more about the incredible people shaping Radiation Medicine!
