Raina Dodson
Raina Dodson is a Quality Control Supervisor at Aalto Scientific, LTD, where she recently transitioned from the pharmaceutical industry into the biotech sector. In her current role, which she has held for four months, Raina oversees the full product flow from fill through shipping, conducts rigorous testing, and prepares Certificates of Analysis for released products. Drawing on her strong biochemistry background and practical laboratory expertise, she ensures that all operations maintain the highest standards of consistency, repeatability, and product integrity. Her hands-on leadership style combines technical precision with team development, fostering an environment where quality and efficiency are paramount.
With nearly five years of experience in the field, Raina’s career began in undergraduate research and academic support roles, where she honed her laboratory skills and developed a foundation in scientific analysis. She then spent several years in pharmaceutical quality control, advancing from Senior QC Analyst to Lead QC Analyst, before taking on her current management role in biotechnology. Raina has led multiple Lean Six Sigma improvement projects, applying continuous-improvement methodologies to streamline processes, enhance operational efficiency, reduce variability, and achieve measurable cost and time savings. She approaches every project with a data-driven mindset, valuing accuracy, process integrity, and collaborative problem-solving.
Beyond her professional achievements, Raina values authenticity, honesty, and respect in all aspects of her life. She enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, walking her dog, playing golf, traveling, and relaxing at the lake. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in International Biomedical Regulatory Sciences at The University of Georgia, further expanding her knowledge of global regulatory frameworks and industry best practices. Raina’s career reflects a commitment to scientific excellence, operational leadership, and continuous growth, balanced with a dedication to personal fulfillment and meaningful connections both inside and outside the workplace.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
• VFC- Identities and Inclusion
• Right to Know training for Global Harmonized System and Hazardous Waste Awareness
• Georgia Southern University - BS, Biochemistry
• Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association
• Environmental Health and Safety Committee
• Southern Pride Marching Band
• Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society (SAACS)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the inspiration and support of my parents. My father, a doctor, recognized my interest in science early on and encouraged me to pursue it, while both of my parents consistently fostered my curiosity and growth. Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my abilities provided a strong foundation that has shaped my work ethic, confidence, and passion for learning throughout my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that even negative experiences can be valuable, because they put the positive moments into perspective. Challenges and setbacks offer important lessons, help me grow, and make successes feel more meaningful. I try to approach every situation with this mindset, using difficulties as opportunities to learn and strengthen my resilience while appreciating the achievements along the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take small, consistent steps aim to be just 1% better each day. Seek hands-on experience through research and assistant roles, and balance responsibilities while building skills over time.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I currently face is transitioning into a new sector with different products, which comes with a steep learning curve. Alongside this, I focus on ensuring consistency in quality and performance, both personally and within the team. At the same time, this transition presents a significant opportunity to expand my expertise, bring fresh perspectives, and contribute to innovative solutions in a new area.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, honesty, and respect. I strive to be my true self in every situation, approaching interactions with transparency and integrity. By being genuine, I build trust and foster meaningful relationships, creating environments where collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect can thrive. I believe that living these values consistently not only guides my decisions but also strengthens the connections I have with colleagues, friends, and my community.