According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median number of years that workers are with their current employer was 4.1 years in 2021. At Quest Diagnostics, we take pride in retaining our employees. We recently interviewed 6 members of our Genomic Services team to learn more about what has kept them thriving at Quest for so long. Their years of employment range from 20 to 33 years. One employee summed up her longevity by saying, “I have stayed with Quest not due to a fear of change or lack of motivation, but because this corporation has offered me everything needed to thrive. I work at a company that helps others, offers mobility, good managers, advancement opportunities, and growth.” Below are some highlights of why these employees have chosen longevity at Quest Diagnostics.
What has kept you working at Quest for this long?
Charlene Sulak, Genomic Coordinator: The people that I’ve had the pleasure to work with have kept me here all these years! Also, I’ve always been proud of the integrity of the company and the people that work here. We really do put the patient first.
Lisa Pike-Buchanan, Genomic Science Specialist: As a genetic counselor, I’ve had the opportunity to interface with all aspects of our company, including patient service Center, sales/account services, logistics, IT, client services, specimen processing, referrals, and laboratory departments. Our appreciative clients help keep me motivated to come to work every day, but it’s my interactions with my Quest colleagues that really make my job here feel like a family working together to help our patients.
Rhonda Brown, Supervisor, Genomic Client Services: Quest Diagnostics has provided me with an opportunity to obtain knowledge and experience that I couldn’t have received anywhere else. They offer employees a chance to increase their knowledge with on-the-job training and encourage employees to further their education with college tuition reimbursement. The bonus is the people who work at Quest. You develop lifelong friendships and your coworkers become your family.
Charlie Rhodes, Genomic Coordinator: Quest has shown me throughout my 33 years that they are in it to win. Quest has maintained a stellar rating and every position I have held has shown me that Quest has integrity, quality services, and is an industry leader.
Cathi Franklin, Senior Manager: Quest is stable, strong, and does the highest quality of work. Quest takes care of its employees, which was especially evident during the pandemic. I love that Quest cares about diversity and inclusion. It is also evident that they truly care for patients.
Veronica McKinney, Genomic Client Services Specialist: Not only have I developed positive working relationships, but also solid friendships with my co-workers in a supportive environment created by Quest Diagnostics. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and my Quest family, along with my family and friends, were there for me every step of the way.
What changes have you seen at Quest over the years?
Charlene Sulak, Genomic Coordinator: There have been so many changes through the years. I think the biggest change has been how we’ve grown over the last 10 years. All the changes have been positive and just continue to make this a wonderful place to work.
Lisa Pike-Buchanan, Genomic Science Specialist: In the last 20 years, I’ve seen our genetic counseling team grow from 8 members to over 35. I’ve also seen our genetic test offerings grow, especially in the areas of oncology and women’s health. Through the many changes over the years, I’ve noticed that one thing remains constant: my colleagues truly care about our patients and doing the right thing, which is not always the easiest path.
Rhonda Brown, Supervisor, Genomic Client Services: Quest Diagnostics has always strived to anticipate the changing needs of healthcare providers and patients. Patients now have direct access to their lab results and can even order certain tests themselves. Quest test offerings have expanded and give healthcare providers and patients the support they need to live a healthier life. Quest has also increased health awareness for their employees and offers numerous programs to help employees and their families remain mentally and physically healthy.
Charlie Rhodes, Genomic Coordinator: There have been tremendous changes over the course of 33 years. For example, robotics has resulted in increased efficiency in many different areas. In my current position as a genomic coordinator, I’ve seen our team grow and I’ve witnessed our team take on new challenges, such as research and publishing, attending genetic counseling conferences, writing blogs, and taking on leadership positions. My Quest journey has been a heck of a ride. A ride filled with thrills, challenges and lots of surprising dips and curves. I would not have it any other way!
Cathi Franklin, Senior Manager: We initially started with just four genetic counselors and now have over 35, in addition to our group of genomic coordinators and our genomic client services team. We offer clients an extensive menu of genetic tests in areas such as oncology, women’s health, neurology, cardiovascular, biochemical, endocrine, and cytogenetics. It will be exciting to see what will happen next!
Veronica McKinney, Genomic Client Services Specialist: I have seen Quest Diagnostics grow from a mid-sized company to a large corporation. That growth can have its challenges, but Quest’s core values, such as integrity, quality, and accountability haven’t changed.
There are a multitude of laboratories that clinicians may choose from when caring for their patients. Quest Diagnostics has a robust test menu, managed contracts with the majority of payers, and longevity in the industry. However, employees like these and others are the backbone of the company.
