Arlena Gauldin
Arlena Lang is a Medical Assistant Instructor at Ozarks Technical Community College, where she has spent the past five and a half years preparing students for success in fast-paced clinical environments. In her role, she delivers didactic instruction, supervises hands-on clinical lab skills—including phlebotomy, injections, and simulated patient-care tasks—and helps train and mentor new instructors. Arlena leads an accelerated 16-week medical assistant program designed to mirror real-world clinic demands, and her program consistently achieves a nation-leading National Healthcare Association (NHA) certification pass rate of approximately 99%.
Before transitioning into education, Arlena built a strong clinical foundation working in healthcare settings, including five years specializing in ophthalmology. She entered teaching after being recruited by a former instructor who recognized her clinical skill and leadership potential. Earlier in her career, Arlena served more than eight years in the United States Army as a transportation specialist, earning multiple honors including the Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal. That military experience continues to shape her emphasis on integrity, accountability, and follow-through in both the classroom and clinical training.
Arlena holds a Medical Assistant certification from Everest (2014), an associate degree with certification in Bioclinical Sciences from Ozarks Tech, and a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Missouri State University, which she completed last semester. She is currently enrolled in a graduate program with an expected completion date of May 2027. Guided by the belief that education can create financial independence and long-term career mobility, Arlena is deeply committed to helping students develop the competence, confidence, and professionalism needed to thrive in healthcare careers.
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
• Missouri State University- Master's
• Missouri State University- B.S.
• Ozarks Technical Community College- Associate's
• Everest College-Springfield
• Tau Sigma National Honors Society
• Phi Theta Kappa
• Army Commendation Medal
• Army Achievement Medal
• Ronald McDonald House
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to carving my own path, unwavering hard work and grit, and the motivation I draw from my children, who inspire me to lead by example. I am also deeply grateful for the mentorship and encouragement of Becky Stevens, whose belief in me helped shape my transition into education.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that you can’t do one thing without another—we all build on what came before us. My uncle often reminded me that “we stand on the shoulders of giants,” a lesson that keeps me grounded, collaborative, and grateful for those who paved the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself and keep going—healthcare is demanding, and learning new terminology and skills can feel overwhelming at times, but persistence and confidence in your abilities are what ultimately lead to success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is helping students identify the next career pathway when they don’t want to remain in a medical assisting role long term. At the same time, the greatest opportunity lies in leadership, with instructors and former students increasingly moving into clinic management and other influential healthcare leadership positions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, a strong work ethic, and staying true to my commitments are the values that guide me both professionally and personally. Outside of work, I value balance and time outdoors, enjoying activities like fishing, kayaking, and disc golf.