Celebrating Graduation of 9th Clinical Laboratory Scientist Trainee
Sierra View Medical Center is proud to celebrate the graduation of Michelle Vasquez, our newest Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) program graduate. Michelle is the ninth trainee to successfully complete the CLS Training Program through our hospital’s state-certified lab, one of the few in the region to offer this opportunity in partnership with the California Department of Public Health.
Originally from Long Beach, Michelle moved to Porterville during high school and later attended Porterville College. She went on to complete her biology degree at the University of California, Davis. Her journey into laboratory science was sparked by a love for science and a growing passion for healthcare.
"I always loved science, and I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career,” Michelle shared. "In college, I discovered that being in the laboratory and collaborating with classmates is actually fun! So, clinical lab science felt like the perfect fit for me. I have always aspired to be in healthcare and help patients receive the proper treatment and diagnosis."
With her academic foundation in place, Michelle looked for a program that would offer real-world experience in a hospital setting—something she found in Sierra View’s CLS Training Program.
"Numerous students before me have successfully completed this program. I wanted the same direct experience of learning and working in a hospital setting," she said. Michelle also shared that after living in Porterville for many years, the opportunity felt personal. "Getting to work here feels like I am directly giving back to the community."
The year-long training program at Sierra View provided Michelle with experience in every area of the lab. She received one-on-one instruction from physicians and laboratory experts and worked side-by-side with experienced laboratory scientists who helped build her knowledge and confidence.
Among her favorite areas were the blood bank and microbiology. She enjoyed the fast-paced, detail-oriented nature of the blood bank, where careful precautions help ensure safe transfusions. In microbiology, she found fulfillment in identifying bacteria through their color, shape, staining properties, and biochemical reactions, turning science into accurate diagnosis and patient care.
Anthony Nungaray, Laboratory Manager at Sierra View, reflected on Michelle’s time in the program:
"Michelle Vasquez is our 9th CLS Trainee to successfully complete the CLS program at Sierra-View Medical Center. A recent graduate of UC Davis, Michelle was able to benefit from the CLS program that is offered at our organization. Our program has created an opportunity for local candidates to pursue their careers in laboratory science, and also to provide our organization and community with well-trained and qualified laboratory professionals. Michelle brought to our program a good attitude, excellent work ethic, and some experience that lent itself to an overall successful year. Michelle has a bright future in the clinical laboratory, and I can only imagine how far her career will take her.”
Congratulations, Michelle!
