The composition of the sonography workforce in Australia is currently undergoing a period of generational change. As the current sonography workforce ages, multiple generations now work together, spanning up to 50 years in age. Each generation holds cultural and social viewpoints and expectations. These viewpoints and expectations can fuel a generational gap in the knowledge of and understanding of individuals of a different age group. This generational divide can breed misunderstanding and conflict as diversity in perspectives go unacknowledged, unappreciated and disrespected. This generational divide can fracture efficiency and communication in workplace teams.
However, by increasing understanding of generational strengths, the most optimal components of these strengths can be cultivated to promote a common set of values and expectations in a sonography team. This presentation will introduce knowledge drawn from scientific research on generational traits, how these traits can be valued and leveraged to acknowledge both similarities and differences between generations in the sonography team to promote positive and effective communication.

The first dedicated use of ultrasound was developed in the late 1950s Since then, the sonography profession has been developing worldwide. In Australia, the sonographer represents the pinnacle of ultrasound imaging. However, sonographers are now expanding where they work and what they do, but ultimately, the basic knowledge we attained training as sonographers is always there to refer to.
As with any profession, there are always people who work within its boundaries but always strive to do more. The Australian sonographer does not have a specific scope of practice yet; nonetheless, we see individuals across the Australian States and Territories expanding into practices that traditionally have not been that of a sonographer. Some of these practices involve sonographic work, with others being more on the periphery.
This presentation aims to highlight the journeys and innovative pathways that traditional sonographers can now navigate to make their working lives even more meaningful, ultimately develop the profession, and even improve healthcare outcomes.

The skilful use of state-of-the-art technology has always been an essential part of sonography. However, recent advances in technology have created both educational opportunities and challenges. Universal access to generative artificial intelligence (AI) means sonography education providers must enhance ways that ensure assessment integrity, and find ways to promote the ethical use of AI. Imaging tasks are becoming increasingly automated - learning must now include the development of manual imaging knowledge and skill, as well as those that allow the appropriate application of automated functions. Improved ultrasound technology has increased the scope of sonographer practice: a wider range of learner knowledge and skill are required in addition to the foundational imaging competencies. Low and high fidelity simulation, together with virtual reality technology, play an increasingly valuable role in sonographer education. This presentation examines these important educational issues.