From Classroom to Clinical Impact: Judi’s Journey in the TMH Medical Laboratory
After teaching high school science for a decade, Judi Floyd made a bold move—trading her classroom for the lab. One year into her role at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH), she knows she made the right decision.
“It’s like solving a puzzle”
For Judi, every sample tells a story, and she loves being part of putting those pieces together.
“Hematology is my favorite bench. Going through the white blood cells and the red blood cells, it’s like a puzzle. We’re not here to diagnose the patient, but when we start connecting the dots, we can foresee what might be happening. Doctors can’t diagnose without what we do.”
While lab techs may not see patients face-to-face, the connection and impact is real.
“When I start a shift and recognize a name from the day before, I know their story is still unfolding. We see the progress through their results. It reminds me how important this work is, and how crucial our role is in the continuity of care.”
Why TMH? A Culture of Collaboration and Growth
Judi explored other hospitals before TMH—and she noticed the difference immediately.
“I’ve been in small labs that felt dark and dingy, and others so huge you couldn’t catch your breath. TMH has the perfect balance—not overwhelming, not boring. We’re a team. If I ask for help, no one ever says, ‘Sorry, I’m busy.’ Everyone here wants you to succeed.”
That support is matched by opportunity. Judi recently stepped into a new role in the lab: Medical Laboratory Liaison. She oversees all send-out testing to specialized reference laboratories, who we partner with for complex testing. Her work ensures our clinical teams have the accurate results they need to make informed decisions for patients every day.
Judi’s advancement reflects our commitment to fostering professional development in our community. TMH is a teaching hospital, which means learning is part of our culture. From training future healthcare professionals to helping current team members grow their careers, we’re committed to continuous development for everyone.
“I’ve been teaching in our Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Certificate Program, which allows those with a bachelor’s in a science field to obtain their MLS certificate in one year, at no cost to the students. Now, in my new role, I also teach Lab Specimen Training for all incoming nurses during orientation. TMH’s culture of growth gave me the chance to dabble in the teaching career I left while helping others learn and progress in their careers. These opportunities show how much TMH invests in its people—here, you gain experience, knowledge and confidence that truly sets you apart.”
State-of-the-Art Technology & Training
TMH’s lab is equipped with advanced Beckman Coulter systems and cutting-edge analyzers, giving techs access to the tools they need to excel. Even if you’re not familiar with the systems, training is comprehensive and fast—you’ll feel like an expert in no time.
A Great Job in a Great Place to Live
For Judi, TMH offers the best of both worlds.
“I live in Wakulla County, on six acres of land. I love the rural life. I get to spend my days off riding my horse, then go to work and make a difference at a major hospital. That’s the beauty of Tallahassee—you can live however you want and still have a big city career.”
Her advice to future lab techs?
“If you want to be part of a team that values your expertise, challenges you to keep learning, and gives you a role in the most important part of patient care, TMH is where you want to be.”
Ready to join a team where your work truly matters? Apply now to become a Medical Laboratory Technologist at TMH! Visit Careers.TMH.ORG.