Viviana Reyes
Viviana Reyes is an accomplished Inorganics Laboratory Supervisor at California Laboratory Services, where she oversees the conventional chemistry, ion chromatography, and metals departments. Since joining the environmental chemistry sector in 2021, Viviana has demonstrated a strong commitment to precision, safety, and efficiency in the laboratory. She excels in optimizing standard operating procedures, training chemists in safe chemical handling, and implementing cross-training programs that enhance team flexibility and operational continuity.
Viviana began her career as a metals chemist, preparing and analyzing soil and water samples using EPA-approved methods and advanced instrumentation, including ICP-MS and atomic absorption analyzers. Her hands-on experience in method development, sample analysis, and instrument calibration laid a strong foundation for her leadership role, allowing her to mentor her team while maintaining strict adherence to quality and regulatory standards.
Outside the laboratory, Viviana enjoys spending time with her pets—a lab mix and two cats—and is an avid music enthusiast, with a particular fondness for Oasis. She also cherishes traveling with her family, recently exploring Oaxaca, Mexico. Viviana’s passion for learning, mentorship, and scientific excellence drives both her professional growth and her dedication to fostering a collaborative and knowledgeable team.
• Sonoma State University - BS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a foundation of integrity—always striving to do the right thing—and the unwavering support of my family. My mother stayed up with me during countless study sessions, and my father consistently encouraged and reassured me throughout my career and educational journey, helping me reach this role.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my aunt, Dolores Molina, who has been both a mentor and a role model for me. She was the first in our family to earn a college degree, graduating from SDSU with a degree in Sociology. Throughout her career with the County of San Diego, she passionately advocated for children in need, demonstrating dedication, resilience, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact. Her example has been a constant source of inspiration, shaping the way I approach my own career and professional goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: don’t give up and keep going. Even if you don’t come from a STEM background, with dedication, effort, and persistence, you can learn the necessary skills, see your goals through, and get your foot in the door.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is keeping up with constantly evolving regulations and technologies while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and safety in the laboratory. At the same time, this creates tremendous opportunities for growth—whether it’s developing more efficient processes, cross-training teams for greater flexibility, or contributing to innovations that improve laboratory practices. I’m continually inspired by the chance to mentor others, optimize workflows, and make a meaningful impact through quality science, and I see each challenge as an opportunity to learn and lead.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are mentorship, growth, and integrity. I’m especially proud of helping my chemists—many of whom are fresh out of college—develop their skills by sharing my expertise, providing guidance, and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed in the STEM field.
Outside of work, I’m an animal lover and actively follow the Sacramento SPCA. I have two cats and a dog, and I enjoy spending time with them at home. I’m also a big coffee drinker, love watching movies, enjoy music, and treasure time spent with my family and my college sweetheart.