BROOKE PALACIO
Fort Worth,TX
Summary
Accomplished Laboratory Scientist with 15 years of expertise in high-complexity laboratory operations and 12 years in leadership. Demonstrated proficiency in project management and process design, complemented by a proven track record in developing educational materials and delivering impactful presentations. Strong relationship-building abilities have consistently driven high productivity and successful project outcomes. Seeking to leverage oncology and scientific experience to enhance innovation and educational strategies within a dynamic organization.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Laboratory Manager
Texas Oncology Cancer Center
Fort Worth, TX
02.2020 - Current
- Designed and optimized workflows across 16 sites in the DFW region, improving resource utilization and patient outcomes.
- Spearheaded the expansion of test volumes by 70% at the Fort Worth Cancer Center, resulting in a 115% increase in revenue, month over month.
- Provided expert lab opinions and collaborated with cross-departmental teams in the Clinical Advisory Committee with US Oncology, and the Operations Advisory Board with Texas Oncology, to align operations with strategic goals and to drive innovation across all US Oncology clinics in the United States.
- Developed and implemented laboratory safety protocols to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations as part of a special subcommittee of the Clinical Advisory Board.
- Actively participates in ASCLS conferences, COLA forums, and ASCP forums; presents topics at national and local conferences on topics related to oncology lab testing, biomarker testing, precision medicine, and navigating workflow challenges with all of the new biomarker kits available.
- As the head technical medical laboratory scientist expert in the region, provide technical guidance to lab staff members, lab supervisors, and lab managers regarding complex testing processes and results.
- Achieved zero deficiencies in COLA inspections for all labs.
- Developed and delivered staff training programs to all TXO labs.
- Mediate conflicts between employees, and facilitate effective resolutions to disputes.
- Interview and hire prospective employees.
- Resolve customer inquiries and complaints requiring management-level escalation.
- Review employee performance and provided ongoing feedback and coaching to drive performance improvement.
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Multiple locations and facilities
05.2018 - 02.2020
- Trained junior laboratory staff and students in laboratory techniques and safety protocols.
- Analyzed body fluids, including blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, to detect abnormalities.
Supervisor/Instructor-Medical Laboratory Scientist
Multiple Air Force Bases
Omaha, USA
10.2013 - 01.2018
- Implemented advanced workflow methodologies and systems, reducing error rates by 18%.
- Directed operations and education programs for a team of 42 personnel, ensuring compliance with program standards and regulatory requirements.
- Delivered project management support for high-complexity laboratory integrations and readiness initiatives, including joint biological warfare testing
Medical Laboratory Scientist-Supervisor
Nellis Air Force Base/Travis Air Force Base
Las Vegas, USA
05.2009 - 09.2013
- Spearheaded process redesigns and new analyzer installation, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Managed the blood bank and chemistry sections, training over 40 personnel, and achieving a 100% compliance rate with NAACLS standards.
- Developed and presented educational materials for the NAACLS program that are still being used in several Air Force medical facilities today.
- Executed a full-scale revision of SOPs, enhancing laboratory efficiency, and ensuring continuous operational readiness.
Education
Master of Science - Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
University of Missouri
05.2025
Associate of Arts - Intelligence Studies and Technology
Community College of the Air Force
12.2016
Associate of Arts - Chinese Mandarin Language Studies
Defense Language Institute
12.2013
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
Trident University International
12.2012
Associate of Science - Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Community College of the Air Force
12.2010
Skills
- Continuous Improvement and Change Management
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
- Advanced analytical skills
- Scientific presentations
- Program and Project Management
- Laboratory Operations Management
- Regulatory Compliance and Audit Preparedness
Certification
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), ASCP
- Joint Biological Agent Identification & Diagnostic System Training, 2012
- Leadership & Supervisory Safety/Management Training, 2012
Affiliations
- Continuing Education: attending multiple conferences and forums each year for professional growth
- Staying fit, active, and social
Accomplishments
- Presented at multiple conferences and forums on subjects ranging from biomarker testing in an oncology setting to cancer antigen test comparisons to development of staffing model calculators for managers
- Known for paving the way and thinking outside of the box
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Chinese (Mandarin)
Professional
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Laboratory Manager
Texas Oncology Cancer Center
02.2020 - Current
Medical Laboratory Scientist
Multiple locations and facilities
05.2018 - 02.2020
Supervisor/Instructor-Medical Laboratory Scientist
Multiple Air Force Bases
10.2013 - 01.2018
Medical Laboratory Scientist-Supervisor
Nellis Air Force Base/Travis Air Force Base
05.2009 - 09.2013
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS), ASCP
- Joint Biological Agent Identification & Diagnostic System Training, 2012
- Leadership & Supervisory Safety/Management Training, 2012
Master of Science - Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences
University of Missouri
Associate of Arts - Intelligence Studies and Technology
Community College of the Air Force
Associate of Arts - Chinese Mandarin Language Studies
Defense Language Institute
Bachelor of Science - Health Sciences
Trident University International
Associate of Science - Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Community College of the Air Force
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