3 Questions with Alfonso Ortiz, MLS(ASCP)CM

Alfonso Ortiz, MLS(ASCP)^CM, is the Assistant Director for Pathology Services, University Health San Antonio, serves as president of the ASCP Texas Riverwalk Chapter in San Antonio, TX, and is a member of ASCP’s Council of Laboratory Management & Administration. Mr. Ortiz is a volunteer, mentor, and advocate for laboratory professions.

Here Mr. Ortiz shares his path to career in laboratory science—including his passion for music— his favorite test to perform in the laboratory, and the myriad influential mentors he has worked and studied with throughout his career.

Can you share a specific experience or moment that solidified your decision to choose a career in the laboratory?

Interestingly, laboratory medicine was not my original career path. I initially attended Laredo Community College as a music major and later explored radiology technology.

As I explored the different healthcare majors, I was introduced to the medical laboratory technology program by the program director. As I progressed through the program, and later continued my education at UT Health San Antonio, I realized the laboratory was a field where science, problem solving, and patient care all intersected. What stood out to me was the impact the laboratory had behind the scenes on patient care.

A major turning point came when I participated in my first instrument validation with the ACL TOP CTS—hemostasis closed tube sampling testing—system. That experience showed me how laboratory professionals directly influence patient outcomes through precision, quality, and teamwork. From that point forward, I knew this was the career I wanted to continue to build on. 

What is your favorite test to perform and why?

In the past, one of my favorite tests to perform in the laboratory was doing manual differentials at the microscope. I always found it fascinating identifying different cell types, especially abnormal cells, because every slide tells a different story about what is happening with the patient. I enjoyed the investigative aspect behind it, knowing that recognizing certain abnormalities could help guide diagnosis and patient care. That was one of the areas that really increased my passion for hematology and laboratory medicine. 

Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your career choice? If so, how have they impacted your journey? 

Absolutely. Throughout my career journey, I’ve had many mentors who encouraged me to continue growing professionally and challenge myself beyond the bench. During my educational journey, mentors such as Doug Bearden and Bill Brannim showed me that continuing my education could open the door to many different career paths within laboratory medicine. 

During my professional career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, mentors such as Dr. Russell Higgins, professor and medical director of University Health System Pathology Services, trusted me with opportunities involving instrument validations, middleware implementations, and LIS projects. Those experiences expanded both my technical knowledge and confidence as a leader. 

Stephanie Whitehead, MBA, MPH, BS, MLS(ASCP)^CM, Vice President of Pathology Services, University Health, also played a significant role in shaping my leadership style and inspiring me to give back to the profession through mentorship, outreach, and professional involvement. That inspiration ultimately contributed to my involvement with ASCP, including founding the ASCP Texas Riverwalk Chapter to help strengthen connections within the laboratory community and support future laboratory professionals.

*This interview has been edited for clarity and length.