Her Story
About Kimberly
Kimberly Duke is an accomplished laboratory operations leader with more than 21 years of experience spanning clinical healthcare and environmental laboratory sciences. She currently serves as Laboratory Operations Manager for the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD), a role she has held for the past four years. Following a successful career in healthcare, Kimberly transitioned to environmental sciences after the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing extensive expertise in laboratory operations, microbiology, quality management, regulatory compliance, and organizational leadership. Since stepping into her first leadership role in 2012, she has built a reputation for developing high-performing teams, improving operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Kimberly earned her Master of Science (M.S.) in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 2014 while working full-time and serving as a teaching assistant. She also holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology from Marquette University. A dedicated lifelong learner, she has earned numerous professional credentials, including Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS(ASCP)), Specialist in Microbiology (SM(ASCP)), a Class B Wastewater Analysis Certification from the State of Missouri, Project Management Professional (PMP)® Bootcamp certification through Saint Louis University Workforce Center, and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Her expertise encompasses laboratory operations, microbiology, project management, process improvement, quality assurance, technical training, validation, and regulatory compliance.
Passionate about developing people as much as processes, Kimberly focuses on empowering her team through comprehensive training, adherence to best practices, and continuous professional development. She is an active member of the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science and the Water Environment Federation, where she is currently seeking a leadership role as Vice Chair of the Laboratory Practices Community. Kimberly attributes her success to an unwavering commitment to continuous growth and lifelong learning, guided by values of integrity, accountability, and service. She encourages emerging professionals to remain engaged in their industries, volunteer whenever possible, and embrace every opportunity to learn. Outside of her career, she enjoys giving back to her community by volunteering with a local Girls Scout troop, reflecting her dedication to mentorship and community service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my constant drive for growth and continuous improvement. I thrive on learning and have never been content with remaining stagnant—I genuinely believe I could be a lifelong student. This passion for expanding my knowledge has fueled both my personal and professional development, while also enabling me to stay current with evolving regulations, industry standards, and best practices. My commitment to continuous learning ensures that I can adapt, innovate, and consistently deliver the highest level of expertise in my work.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to step outside your comfort zone and volunteer for opportunities that allow you to learn, grow, and build meaningful connections. Explore different areas to discover what truly interests and inspires you, then stay actively engaged in those pursuits. Your level of engagement will have a significant impact on both your professional growth and your overall career satisfaction, helping you build a fulfilling and rewarding path.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and honesty are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe in taking ownership of my mistakes, being accountable for my actions, and using every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve. Rather than avoiding or hiding mistakes, I believe in addressing them openly, developing a plan to prevent them from happening again, and moving forward with transparency. In the long run, honesty builds trust, strengthens relationships, and fosters a culture of continuous growth and accountability.
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