Science in Action: Atherton Students Step Into the Lab
Exploring Career Pathways: Atherton Students Visit HealthTrackRx
Nearly 30 students from Atherton’s Health Science Academy had the opportunity to step inside one of Louisville’s most fast-paced and innovative labs—HealthTrackRx. The visit offered a first-hand look at how clinical laboratory science works, from sample intake to the rapid turnaround of results, all while introducing students to potential career opportunities available to them as young adults.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
During a guided tour of the facility, students were introduced to the systems that allow HealthTrackRx to process roughly 9,000 samples each day. The efficiency of the lab is rooted in a precise and well-planned process, with the ultimate goal of delivering test results to physicians within just 12 hours of sample receipt.
Along the way, students learned about the kinds of entry-level roles they could pursue immediately after high school, should they choose to enter the workforce. On one of the lab walls, a quote served as a reminder of the company’s mission: “getting people healthier faster.” That sentiment shaped the tone of the visit—one centered on meaningful careers that keep patients healthy.
Career Journeys and Real-World Insight
“To have not only the experience of seeing but exploring tangible career options in their field of interest is invaluable to our students.”
The students also heard from Kate Denny, a clinical laboratory scientist with a unique career journey. Originally a zoology major, Kate spent time as a high school teacher before shifting into clinical laboratory science. She emphasized the complexity of the work, noting that testing requires “precision, accuracy, and speed.”
Kate spoke candidly about the challenges of the job and the importance of systems that safeguard against errors. Her message about career resilience and ambition resonated clearly: “It’s insane what you can do if you decide you are going to make it happen.”
An Expanding Organization
HealthTrackRx is a company on the rise. With plans to triple its workforce in the next two years, it is creating pathways for new talent in the field of diagnostic testing. For the Atherton students, this meant learning about a rapidly growing employer that is actively seeking young professionals.
Recruiter Lea Summers introduced students to the organization’s many benefits, including tuition reimbursement, employee recognition, and referral programs. Her presentation underscored HealthTrackRx’s investment not just in speed and scale, but in its people.
From the Classroom to the Lab
For educators on the visit, the experience provided meaningful connections between classroom learning and real-world application. Amanda Green shared, “Our students have been studying concepts and skills related to the clinical laboratory. To be able to visit and view an actual working lab provides context for their learning in ways that cannot be accomplished inside of a classroom. To have not only the experience of seeing but exploring tangible career options in their field of interest is invaluable to our students.”
Kristin Goodwin, RN, BSN, added, “Experiences like this are so valuable, as they allow students to gain insight into what a career in the industry might look like. Working at a lab like the one we saw will allow students to grow professionally, helping them to achieve both short- and long-term goals, while working in an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and real-world skill development.”
A Step Toward the Future
This visit offered more than a tour; it offered students the chance to see how science, technology, and teamwork intersect in a high-demand field. For many, it may have sparked new interest or affirmed existing career goals. For HealthTrackRx, it was a chance to connect with the next generation of skilled professionals who may one day help the company deliver on its promise of better health, delivered faster.
