metal_monger,
I can certainly appreciate anyone's aversion to not entering the RT field, but I certainly would not disuade others from furthering their skills and marketability by taking classes no matter what the disclipine. I also would like to know why you have isssues with Hellier??? I recently attended Hellier's (ie. Accuren) Radiographic Film Interpretation on my own dime and feel completely satisfied with the money spent!
ANY education enhancing one's Professional credentials is good thing, source of funding being irrelevant.
Over the years, I have spent zillions of $$$'s on school, seminars etc. and since I PAY for them, I tend to be a bit more attentive and retentive of the information. Also, I am not beholding to any employer 'cause they "invest in my advancements".
Perhaps others out there are fortunate enough to have some one pay for their education, but NOTHING is ever FREE!
To anyone questioning whether to pay for their own RT 1, I say go for it. It will perhaps allow you to be selective of prospective employers, rather than feeling compelled to grab the first offer that comes down the pike. AND probably get a better starting wage with greater respect of the company owner and or supervisors.