Lynnette Chakkaphak, MS, MT(ASCP), has worn many hats in her four-decade career in medical laboratory science. From laboratory professional to mentor to former chair of ASCP’s Council of Laboratory Professionals, and now Director of Clinical Operations at St. Vincent Medical Center, she has witnessed firsthand the evolution of women’s roles in pathology and laboratory medicine, and the rise of women in leadership positions. Here, she shares her thoughts on how we can continue this forward momentum.
Do you feel health care is moving in a positive direction in terms of supporting women in leadership positions in health care, and/or supporting their path to leadership?
Absolutely! Forty-four years ago when I was beginning my career in laboratory medicine, most leadership positions were held by males, and female laboratory professionals like me were commonly referred to as "the girls." As the years progressed and women were increasingly offered leadership roles, their salaries still lagged far behind the salaries offered to men in those same positions. Today, I feel no gender bias whatsoever in my role as Director of Clinical Operations. The senior leadership team for my health system is very diverse, and my opportunities to advance are based solely on my leadership skills and knowledge that I bring to the table.
What do we need to do to bring more women into pathology and laboratory medicine?
As a woman in the field of medical laboratory science, I feel a responsibility to serve as a role model and mentor for girls and young women. As Marian Wright Edelman said, "It's hard to be what you can't see," so I'm always on the lookout for opportunities to raise awareness of careers in the medical laboratory. ASCP's Career Ambassador Program is one way to reach out to young people and get them excited about becoming scientists. The earlier we can introduce a love of science and an interest in scientific careers, the better. For many years, I have served as a science project mentor, working with junior high and high school students entering their local science fairs. Projects which utilize live bacteria typically require a student to work with a "qualified scientist" to assure that testing is done under the appropriate biosafety-level conditions in a real laboratory. I have worked with many teenage girls over the years. I love seeing their interest in science grow and the spark of excitement in their eyes as they see what they are capable of achieving with their scientific experimentation. In my view, it is never too early to start. In March, I will be going into my grandson's elementary school to conduct an experiment on the effectiveness of disinfectants. The little third graders in the class are going to be able to see firsthand that little girls can grow up to be scientists in a white lab coats who are also fun grandmothers!
What advice would you give to other women in pathology and laboratory medicine who want to move into leadership positions?
Say "Yes" when new opportunities and challenging leadership roles arise, even if you think you might not be ready. Let's say your boss approaches you with an opportunity to head up a new project or committee that would be "in addition to" your current duties. You might be inclined to turn them down if you feel uncertain you can handle it. It may feel safer to wait until you study up on the subject at hand or until you have less on your plate at work, but you really could be passing up the perfect chance to grow your skills as a leader and highlight your capabilities.
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