Katrina Calderwood has built a distinguished career in clinical laboratory science, bringing more than three decades of expertise in microbiology, molecular science, quality control, and quality assurance. Her work reflects a deep commitment to maintaining the highest standards of laboratory performance while supporting the next generation of medical professionals.

Since 2016, Ms. Calderwood has served as the Quality Control Coordinator and clinical laboratory scientist at the Veterans Affairs Health Care System. In this role, she is responsible for developing laboratory procedures, validating new testing equipment and diagnostic methods, and training clinical laboratory science students, pathology residents, and infectious disease fellows. She also oversees key laboratory metrics including turnaround times, test positivity rates, and monthly testing performance indicators. In 2024, she became a technical specialist in the microbiology laboratory.

Throughout her career, Ms. Calderwood has been widely respected for her practical expertise and strong technical foundation in laboratory science. When laboratory instruments or machines fail, she relies on traditional methods and core laboratory principles to ensure continuity of testing and patient care. She frequently mentors younger professionals entering the field, demonstrating the importance of maintaining fundamental laboratory skills alongside modern technology.

Ms. Calderwood completed coursework at Indiana University from 1989 to 1992 and earned an undergraduate degree in medical technology from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis in 1993. She maintains professional affiliation with the American Society of Clinical Pathology.

Reflecting on her career, Ms. Calderwood credits her success to years of hands on laboratory experience and the guidance of important mentors, including her husband, a fellow clinical laboratory scientist whom she met during clinical rotations in college, as well as her medical director at Duke University who played a significant role in her professional development for more than 25 years.

Looking ahead, Ms. Calderwood remains committed to continued professional growth while supporting excellence in clinical laboratory science and mentoring future leaders in the field.