What is your role at UPHS – Marquette?

I am a laboratory lead tech at UP Health System-Marquette.

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I actually had a science teacher in high school who mentioned Medical Technology to me and I enjoyed science and lab work. I enrolled in the Medical Technology program at Northern Michigan University and stuck with it.     

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

As the lead tech for the chemistry department, I am responsible for the maintenance, calibration and quality control of chemistry analyzers and testing.  In the morning, we have all the maintenance and quality control, followed by all inpatient, outpatient, and reference lab work, so the day is very busy. 

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I started working here in August of 1978, so 47 years now. When I started here, I worked on the afternoon shift, and we rotated through all the different areas of the lab, but now some of the areas are closed departments.  I worked in the core lab for many years until becoming the Lead Tech for Chemistry, so that is my main area now.  

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?  

There have been so many changes over the years, but the analyzer technology and automation have made a huge impact on lab testing. Also, we didn’t get our first computer system until 1986, and everything was handwritten on carbon copy slips! 

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem? 

I enjoy spending time with my family, my husband and I are fortunate to have our children and grandchildren living in Marquette.  We enjoy the outdoors and have skied, biked and camped for many years. Favorite local gem is probably Lake Superior.  I could not imagine living away from the water. 

What do you enjoy most about working at UPHS – Marquette?

My coworkers make the lab an enjoyable place to work.  We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of people.