Tara Bridges
Tara Bridges is the Lead Medical Laboratory Scientist for Hematology at UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown, New York. With over seven years of experience in clinical laboratory science, she specializes in hematology while maintaining a broad background as a generalist across chemistry, and blood bank. In her current role, Tara oversees hematology testing, provides guidance to colleagues, supports laboratory operations, and takes on informal supervisory responsibilities, ensuring smooth daily workflow and high-quality results. Tara’s career in laboratory science began after earning her Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology and Molecular Genetics from the State University of New York at Fredonia, along with minors in Chemistry and Anthropology. She gained experience as a generalist in hospital laboratories, advancing into hematology by embracing opportunities others passed over. Along the way, she developed expertise in laboratory information systems, stepping in to manage IT and LIS-related challenges during system transitions. Her proactive approach and willingness to learn have made her a trusted resource for colleagues and a mentor to students. Beyond her technical work, Tara is deeply committed to mentorship and teaching the next generation of laboratory professionals. She enjoys guiding students and staff, sharing her knowledge, and helping others connect theoretical learning with practical application. Her professional philosophy emphasizes collaboration, process improvement, and fostering growth in others, reflecting her dedication not only to science but also to the development of a strong, skilled laboratory community.
• New York State Licensed Medical Laboratory Scientist
• ASCP Board Certified
• State University of New York at Fredonia- B.S. x 2
• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance and a willingness to step up when needed, taking on responsibilities others avoided, learning new skills like IT and LIS, and prioritizing helping and teaching both colleagues and students.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never give up. Pursue your dreams. As a medical laboratory scientist, you may not be in front of the patient, however, you have the biggest impact on what a doctor does for a patient. You are the science behind the medicine and are an essential part of the team to help others improve their health.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include raising awareness of the profession, navigating staffing shortages that require balancing bench work with supervisory duties, and adapting to new laboratory information systems, which also present opportunities to develop IT expertise.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are keeping integrity in all that I do, mentorship and teaching, and perseverance. One key aspect is allowing myself time to complete tasks during the work day, but also making sure I have the time to be present for my family. That will always be the most important roles in my life, as a mother, wife, daughter and granddaughter.