Susan McGowan
Landstuhl,Germany
Summary
Dynamic and detail-oriented medical laboratory technician with extensive clinical experience in high-pressure environments, including the largest military hospital outside the continental United States. Proven leader adept at managing laboratory operations, streamlining processes, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. Committed to training and developing staff while improving service delivery and operational efficiency. Recognized for exceptional laboratory performance and ability to foster collaborative environments that drive positive outcomes. Seeking to leverage expertise and leadership skills as Testing Research Unit Supervisor to contribute to enhanced laboratory excellence and patient care.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
ASCP Certified Medical Laboratory Technician
Defense Health Agency
07.2021 - Current
- Perform a range of moderately to highly complex tests using a variety of analyzers and manual methods on patient specimens, including blood, urine, and tissues, in accordance with established procedures.
- Operate under strict safety guidelines within potentially hazardous conditions, ensuring compliance with safety protocols at all times.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate the ordering of supplies, ensuring operational readiness and efficiency.
- Prepare and store reagents for a variety of molecular techniques, including PCR, and carry out manual and automated DNA/RNA extractions.
- Conduct PCR analysis for various viral markers, utilizing Real-time PCR and Multiplex PCR protocols, and ensure accurate recording and interpretation of results.
- Execute quality assurance procedures, including instrument function checks and calibration, along with maintaining detailed records.
- Review test results prior to reporting, consulting with supervisors on unusual findings; effectively communicate critical results to physicians.
- Ensured quality control by performing routine maintenance on lab equipment and calibrating instruments as needed.
- Assisted in the training of new staff members, ensuring proper knowledge transfer and adherence to safety protocols.
- Trained and supervised new laboratory staff to improve skills in laboratory procedures.
- Developed strong working relationships with colleagues, fostering a positive team culture focused on collaboration and innovation.
- Improved laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample processing and reducing turnaround times.
- Participated in laboratory audits and assessments to maintain compliance and improve results.
- Increased overall lab productivity by optimizing work schedules, prioritizing tasks, and minimizing downtime.
- Maintained compliance with regulatory agencies through thorough documentation of laboratory processes and procedures.
- Collaborated with physicians to provide critical input on clinical decisions, based on test results.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by regularly reviewing and updating laboratory policies, procedures, and protocols.
- Aided in the development of new laboratory tests, contributing expertise in methodology selection and validation efforts.
- Assisted in development of new laboratory testing methods, contributing to advances in diagnostic techniques.
- Reduced turnaround time for critical tests by optimizing laboratory workflows.
- Participated in interdepartmental meetings to discuss and plan for patient care improvements.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to develop customized testing protocols for rare conditions.
- Facilitated team-oriented environment, fostering collaboration and efficient workflow among technicians.
- Enhanced team knowledge by contributing to training sessions on new techniques and technologies.
- Supported research projects by providing precise and reliable laboratory data.
- Played key role in laboratory accreditation process, ensuring compliance with national standards.
- Followed Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) consistently across daily activities and special products.
- Upgraded laboratory information systems, enhancing data management and access for all stakeholders.
Medical Technologist II
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
05.2018 - 06.2019
- Performed complex diagnostic tests across multiple laboratory sections while implementing quality control measures and troubleshooting as necessary.
- Trained staff in new methodologies and procedures, enhancing overall laboratory competency.
- Gained expertise in assays including Amino Acid Quantitation, Acylcarnitine Profile, Disaccharidase Analysis, and Organic Acid Analysis, reporting results through appropriate channels.
- Maintained inventory control and equipment safety, directly contributing to a clean and efficient working environment.
- Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
- Contributed to the overall success of the laboratory by maintaining a positive attitude and demonstrating strong teamwork skills in daily interactions with peers.
- Utilized microscopy, spectrophotometry and chromatography following procedures for accurate results.
- Served as a reliable resource for physicians seeking clarification on test results or guidance on appropriate testing strategies for specific patient cases.
Medical Technologist I
Penn Medicine: University of Pennsylvania Health System
05.2017 - 04.2018
- Contributed to the overall success of the laboratory by maintaining a positive attitude and demonstrating strong teamwork skills in daily interactions with peers.
- Followed laboratory protocols for specimen processing, analysis, and results reporting.
- Enhanced patient care by accurately performing and interpreting laboratory tests in hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and blood bank departments.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new Medical Technologists, fostering a positive learning environment for skill development.
- Reduced turnaround time for test results by efficiently processing specimens and maintaining optimal instrument performance.
- Employed microscopic techniques to collect and study blood samples to determine number of cells, morphology, and blood group, assessing compatibility for transfusion purposes.
- Operated, calibrated, and maintained sophisticated instruments and equipment to facilitate quality laboratory and patient care operations.
- Increased efficiency by troubleshooting equipment malfunctions and performing routine maintenance tasks as needed.
- Ensured timely reporting of critical results to healthcare providers, allowing for swift interventions in life-threatening situations.
- Upheld regulatory compliance by adhering to all relevant laws, guidelines, policies, and procedures related to medical laboratory practice.
- Trained and oriented new medical technologists to perform and interpret tests.
- Facilitated smooth transitions during technology upgrades by assisting with validation studies, user training, and documentation updates.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to provide timely and accurate data for patient treatment plans.
- Continuously sought opportunities for professional growth through participation in conferences, workshops, and relevant continuing education courses.
- Served as a reliable resource for physicians seeking clarification on test results or guidance on appropriate testing strategies for specific patient cases.
Lead Medical Laboratory Technician
US Army
12.2013 - 12.2016
- Serving in the capacity of Lead Core Lab Technician, Bone Marrow Technician, Special Chemistry Technician, Hazmat POC, Lead Chemistry Trainer
- Recorded known control values from technical instruments to ensure reliability and accuracy in test results reporting
- Referred quality control data to the Clinical Laboratory Scientist Coordinator
- Operated and maintained laboratory equipment and instrumentation ranging from simple to complex
- Performed highly complex tests on blood, urine, and CSF/body fluids for diagnostic purposes by using manual and automated techniques
- Accurately recorded and reported test results according to established procedures
- Performed various administrative duties, including data entry, document preparation and confirmed test results that were used by physicians to determine the presence and extent of disease
- Trained and oriented new technicians to the basic theory, technical skills, proper operation and maintenance of automated interpretation machines
- Demonstrated testing procedures and equipment to new laboratory personnel
- Operated the flow cytometer to make initial diagnoses of immune diseases and hematological disorders
- Maintained and updated all MSDS's
- Neatly and accurately completed all required SOP documentation in accordance with set guidelines.
- Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing automation in daily tasks.
- Conducted regular equipment maintenance, ensuring optimal functioning and minimizing downtime.
Medical Laboratory Technician
US Army
- Clinical Laboratory Rotation II
Medical Laboratory Technician Trainee
US Army
- Clinical Laboratory Rotation I
Legal Secretary
Law Office of Joe Cronin
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Supported attorneys in a legal setting
- Prepared confidential and sensitive documents
- Coordinated travel arrangements; prepared itineraries; prepared, compiled and maintained travel vouchers and records
- Determined matters of top priority and handled accordingly
- Managed spreadsheets and prepared statistical reports
- Scheduled meetings and arranged conference rooms
- Prepared correspondence and legal papers such as summonses, complaints, motions, responses, and subpoenas under the supervision of an attorney or a paralegal.
- Maintained strict confidentiality of sensitive information to protect client privacy and uphold professional ethics.
Cash Control Specialist
Adventure Aquarium Finance
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Responsible for a number of cash processing-related responsibilities
- Manual verification of daily cash and credit profits
- Worked independently to prioritize work in order to meet deadlines
- Assisted in maintaining bank files
- Resolved finance and banking issues.
- Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
- Improved customer satisfaction rates through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals on time and within budget.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
- Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
Manager
Steve & Barry’s
01.2006 - 01.2009
- Maintained store staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training employees
- Maintained store staff job results by coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
- Secured merchandise by implementing security systems and measures
- Determined marketing strategy changes by reviewing operating and financial statements and departmental sales records
- Identified current and future customer requirements by establishing rapport with potential and actual customers and other persons in a position to understand service requirements.
Education
Master of Science - Medical Cannabis Science And Therapeutics
University of Maryland
College Park, MD04.2025
Bachelor of Science - Clinical Laboratory Science
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ2017
Associate of Applied Science - Clinical Laboratory Technology
George Washington University
Washington, DC2014
Skills
- Clinical Proficiency: Accomplished in Hematology, Chemistry, Urinalysis, Coagulation, Special Chemistry, Advanced Diagnostics, and Virology, delivering accurate and timely test results
- Leadership and Training: Highly effective trainer skilled at assessing team capabilities and enhancing staff performance through mentorship and hands-on training
- Technical Expertise: Proficient in equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring optimal lab operations and compliance with safety regulations
- Quality Assurance: Conducts clinical comparison and correlation studies to maintain the integrity and accuracy of laboratory results while adhering to established quality assurance protocols
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain supportive relationships with patients, physicians, pathologists, and co-workers, fostering a collaborative and efficient workplace environment
- Continuous Learner: A Philomath dedicated to lifelong learning and professional development, continually seeking knowledge to enhance lab practices and patient care
Certification
American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification, 25488350, 97441, 11/12/2014, Active until 11/2025
- MLT - Medical Laboratory Technician
Timeline
ASCP Certified Medical Laboratory Technician
Defense Health Agency
07.2021 - Current
Medical Technologist II
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
05.2018 - 06.2019
Medical Technologist I
Penn Medicine: University of Pennsylvania Health System
05.2017 - 04.2018
Lead Medical Laboratory Technician
US Army
12.2013 - 12.2016
Legal Secretary
Law Office of Joe Cronin
01.2010 - 01.2011
Cash Control Specialist
Adventure Aquarium Finance
01.2009 - 01.2010
Manager
Steve & Barry’s
01.2006 - 01.2009
Medical Laboratory Technician
US Army
Medical Laboratory Technician Trainee
US Army
Master of Science - Medical Cannabis Science And Therapeutics
University of Maryland
Bachelor of Science - Clinical Laboratory Science
Thomas Edison State University
Associate of Applied Science - Clinical Laboratory Technology
George Washington University
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