James Magata, MLT (ASCP)
Medical Laboratory Technician III, Core Laboratory – Chemistry
“I’m proud to call Hawai’i my home and DLS my family.”
James Magata never thought he’d be working in the field of medical technology. Growing up on O‘ahu, he was more of a math and language guy than a science guy. After earning a Japanese language degree in college, he realized a future in teaching or tourism just didn’t seem appealing. An Army Reserves recruiter told him about the possibility of studying to become a medical lab technician (MLT). After completing an intensive MLT training program with the Army Reserves, he knew he had found his calling. He eventually accepted a position with Diagnostic Laboratory Services, Inc. (DLS), where he started as an MLT I on the evening shift and later transitioned to his current position as a day-shift MLT II. At DLS, James discovered an exceptional, high-tech work environment and a company and network of coworkers who support him professionally and personally.
“This job keeps you present and engaged, because there’s always something new.”
Today, James works in the Core Laboratory’s Chemistry Department, where he runs, monitors and assesses various aspects of the lab and is working toward eventually becoming an MLT III. He enjoys the critical thinking and problem solving opportunities that go along with a fast-paced setting where test results impact health and wellness and save lives. The excitement comes, he says, from the advanced, high speed, automated technologies and systems that make DLS the premier clinical laboratory in the state. James’s role keeps him on his toes from the minute he steps in the lab. “It’s not about clocking in and out or just getting through daily tasks,” he says. “This job keeps you present and engaged, because there’s always something new.”
James uses words like “rewarding” and “challenging” to describe his day-to-day work, and insists his favorite part of the job is the people. “The culture of collaboration promotes learning and teaching, and we mentor each other by sharing different ways to do things.” He’s close with his coworkers, and relishes the shared responsibility delegated to his team, from continually improving lab processes and protocols to planning employee events.
One of the best parts of working for DLS is that it allows James to continue to call O‘ahu home and enjoy everything from its amazing beaches and diversity to the friendly aloha spirit the island is famous for. Another big draw is the company’s flexibility with respect to schedules, which allows him to train one weekend a month with the Army Reserves.
Above all, James feels the most valuable aspect of working for DLS is the strong sense of purpose that keeps him focused. “I’m blessed to have that feeling with me every day,“ he says. “I absolutely love this job.”
