My career has grown substantially since being named an ASCP Forty Under 40. At the time, I was a regional manager of quality and compliance, focusing on operational improvements. Since then, I have transitioned to academia as an Assistant Professor, where I educate and mentor the next generation of laboratorians. My role has become more collaborative, with increased involvement in professional organizations, committees, and leadership initiatives, such as serving as President-Elect for the Texas River Walk Chapter, MLA BOC Committee, and Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA). These changes reflect a broader scope of influence and a stronger focus on shaping the future of laboratory medicine.

Being named an ASCP 40 Under 40 in 2023 was a transformative milestone. It amplified my visibility within the field and opened doors to collaborative opportunities. Through this recognition, I was able to network with influential leaders in laboratory medicine, join impactful committees, and take on leadership roles in ASCP and related organizations. It validated my contributions to the profession and gave me the confidence to step into roles that required me to be more extroverted and engage with others on a larger scale.

Since being named a 40 Under 40 honoree, my career has taken significant strides. I transitioned from a regional manager of quality and compliance to an Assistant Professor, where I actively contribute to training future laboratorians. I published my first article in Medical Laboratory Observer on best practices for laboratory downtime. Additionally, I co-developed a CDC Workforce Job Aid, which garnered nearly 379 downloads within a month of release, emphasizing its value to laboratorians. My presentations at multiple ASCP Annual Meetings and planning roles for 2025 TACLS and KnowledgeLab 2025 highlight my contributions to advancing our profession.

I was featured in the 55 Under 55 by Medical Laboratory Observer in 2024 and recognized as a "Pathology Hero" on The Pathologist Power List for 2024. These recognitions stem from my continued contributions to the field, including publishing articles, presenting at major conferences, and leading collaborative initiatives like the CDC Workforce Job Aid w/ASCP and fellow laboratorians. Additionally, my feature in Critical Values showcased my leadership and dedication to giving back to the laboratory profession.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of collaboration and stepping outside of my comfort zone. As an introvert, I’ve historically avoided public speaking and leadership roles, but I’ve realized that my voice and expertise can inspire and contribute meaningfully to our profession. Embracing discomfort has been pivotal in growing as a communicator, leader, and educator.

I am most proud of the collaborative initiatives I’ve been part of since receiving the 40 Under 40 recognition. Working on the CDC Workforce Job Aid, which addressed an essential need in our field, stands out as a highlight. Additionally, my transition to academia, where I can shape the next generation of laboratory professionals, is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing my work make tangible impacts, such as the wide usage of resources I helped develop, reinforces my commitment to the field and makes me immensely proud.