HNL Lab Medicine’s Career Connections Program Builds the Next Generation of Clinical Laboratory Professionals
HNL Lab Medicine Inspires the Next Generation of Clinical Laboratory Professionals
HNL Lab Medicine is strengthening the future of healthcare through its Career Connections program, a hands-on student engagement initiative designed to introduce college students to careers in clinical laboratory science and address critical workforce shortages impacting laboratories nationwide.
Led by Katie Moore, MLS (ASCP)ᶜᵐ, Training and Development Coordinator at HNL Lab Medicine, Career Connections offers immersive, two-day experiences held twice annually during the college winter break.
The program connects students directly with laboratory professionals through department tours, shadowing opportunities, a networking luncheon and career development discussions at HNL Lab Medicine’s headquarters in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Medical laboratory science careers have faced sustained workforce challenges for decades due to reimbursement pressures, hospital consolidation, rising education costs, and declining program enrollment. These factors, combined with low public visibility and an aging workforce, have resulted in critical staffing shortages across the country.
Career Connections was developed to reduce this trend by increasing awareness of the profession and creating meaningful pathways for students interested in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
Career Connections Program Introduces Students to Clinical Laboratory Careers
“It has been my privilege to leverage my background in education and medical laboratory science to develop programs that engage STEAM-interested students and strengthen community partnerships, with the goal of addressing workforce shortages,” said Moore. “I am deeply grateful to HNL Lab Medicine leadership for their strong commitment and participation, creating a snowball effect that allows laboratory staff the time to participate in programs and expand our reach and impact.”
The program began as a small partnership with a local university and has since grown to include students from multiple colleges and universities across the region.
Participants explore a wide range of clinical laboratory departments, engage with professionals working across specialties, and collaborate on reflective projects such as “A Day in the Life” presentations that highlight their learning experiences. Professional development sessions are also incorporated to help students better understand career pathways, education requirements, and workforce expectations.
Building Tomorrow’s Laboratory Workforce Through Career Connections
Importantly, Career Connections is designed to give students space to explore and make informed decisions about their future.“The goal is exposure and understanding, so students can confidently decide whether a clinical laboratory career aligns with their interests and strengths.” Moore added.
Students who have participated in Career Connections consistently describe the experience as eye-opening and impactful.“I was fully immersed into the ways of lab work that is done everyday. Being able to see the importance and significance of the lab was exhilarating and so eye opening. This opportunity is a life changer,” said Carinne Frable, Desales University ’27.Another student shared, “I just wanted to thank you for hosting such an informative and valuable event for college students such as myself! I have a newfound respect for the work conducted by HNL Lab Medicine along with each individual department's efforts in contributing to the world of healthcare.”
Career Connections is one of several student-focused initiatives supported by HNL Lab Medicine, reflecting the organization’s long-standing commitment to education, workforce development, and community partnership. By investing in early exposure and mentorship, HNL Lab Medicine aims to help rebuild the pipeline of skilled laboratory professionals essential to patient care. For more information about HNL Lab Medicine, visit hnl.com .