If you’re interested in the medical field, but prefer to have limited patient contact, this could be the career for you. Medical Lab Techs work in laboratories to conduct tests on blood and other specimens to determine clinical test results that aid in patient diagnoses. They typically work in diagnostic labs, doctor’s offices, hospitals, industry, and biotechnology.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical/clinical laboratory technicians is projected to grow seven percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average of all occupations. An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions through laboratory procedures.

Medical laboratory technicians, under the supervision of medical laboratory technologists, apply knowledge of test procedures and quality control methods in the areas of hematology, chemistry, serology, urinalysis, blood bank, microbiology, and phlebotomy; performs tests accurately and efficiently using both automated and manual methodology; evaluates the clinical significance of test results. Upon successful completion of the MLT program, students will be eligible to take the Medical Laboratory Technician certification examination through the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

• Medical Laboratory Technician, A.A.S