For Ian Noga, HTL(ASCP)^CM, MBA, laboratory medicine is his passion. As vice president of Laboratory Services at Sentara Health in Norfolk, VA, Mr. Noga oversees reference and rapid response labs across 12 hospitals and five freestanding EDs, managing more than 13 million tests annually.  

His journey began in Miami, FL, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Histotechnology from Barry University and later an MBA from Florida International University. Initially pursuing medicine, he found his true calling in laboratory science—where 70% of clinical decisions rely on lab data. Mr. Noga has consistently embraced challenges as opportunities to innovate. During the pandemic, he helped lead the rapid launch of a high-capacity COVID testing lab in just 10 days, maintaining 48-hour PCR turnaround times while commercial labs struggled. He believes innovation goes beyond technology—it’s about transforming processes, structures, and culture.  

Mr. Noga’s vision centers on integrating lab services with health system strategy, clinical collaboration, and continuous improvement. He has advocated for laboratory professionals to be recognized as strategic contributors, expanding certification pathways and leading a system-wide title change to elevate the profession. Through national speaking engagements and professional networks, Mr. Noga champions the visibility and influence of laboratory professionals. Recognition through 40 Under Forty would amplify this mission—strengthening advocacy, expanding impact, and reinforcing the essential role of laboratory medicine in patient care, outcomes, and system performance.