United States Air Force genetics and laboratory manager Jessica Ann Bradley, MLS (ASCP), SBB, LSSGB, has built a distinguished career in laboratory science with a specialization in blood banking. Since 2020, she has been an adjunct professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), where she oversees clinical rotations for military personnel, contributes to the Medical Laboratory Science program, and shares her expertise in blood banking. In recent years, she expanded her teaching portfolio as a professor for specialist review courses at The George Washington University, contributing to the Specialist in Blood Banking review course. Her teaching journey commenced as a peer tutor at UAMS from 2019 to 2020.
Ms. Bradley began her professional path at age 17 when she joined the U.S. Air Force, dedicating 22 years to medical laboratory science. During her tenure, she held a variety of roles, including laboratory and radiology manager for 10 years. In this capacity, she managed laboratory and radiology departments, customized test menus to meet specific needs, and resolved billing and contracting challenges.
Moreover, Ms. Bradley has been at the forefront of advancements in the field, having played a pivotal role in pioneering point-of-care bacterial testing for extended platelets in Mississippi, setting a benchmark ahead of FDA safety mandates. Additionally, to stay abreast of the latest developments in laboratory science, she actively participates in professional organizations, including the American Society for Clinical Pathology and the Association for Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies.
Academically, Ms. Bradley earned a bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science from the University of Cincinnati in 2012, followed by a master’s degree from George Washington University in 2018. She also holds a leadership master’s degree from the U.S. Air Force and certifications as a specialist in blood banking and as a medical laboratory scientist from the American Society for Clinical Pathology.
Ms. Bradley has received numerous prestigious accolades throughout her career. She was named Woman of the Year in 2022, an honor bestowed by the hospital commander of the Hurlburt Clinic in recognition of her exceptional contributions during Women’s Month. That same year, she received a special coin from the Florida Panhandle market lead, acknowledging her pivotal role in improving hospital information systems between Eglin and Hurlburt Field. In 2021, Ms. Bradley was named Clinical Scientist of the Year by the Society of Armed Forces Medical Laboratory Scientists. Her achievements also include the Alison Award for Character and Innovation in 2020 and being recognized as a distinguished graduate of the Fellowship Program at Walter Reed Military Medical Center in 2017. Additionally, she was honored as Middle Manager of the Year and Company Grade Officer of the Year. Her academic excellence has also been acknowledged through her induction into the Alpha Eta Honor Society at The George Washington University, where she graduated in the top 10% of the Allied Health Sciences College.
As a peer reviewer for the Military Medicine Journal and a guest lecturer for Air Force Medical Laboratory Technology OTJ, Ms. Bradley continues to make a meaningful impact on her community. She attributes the philosophy of perseverance and innovation, inspired by her grandparents, husband, and children, as the foundation of her success. This mindset drives her to push boundaries and advocate for advancements in patient care within her field.
In the future, Ms. Bradley plans to retire from the Air Force and pursue opportunities with an information technology company specializing in laboratory information systems. Additionally, she aspires to transition into a full-time role as an assistant professor, further contributing to the education and development of future laboratory professionals. Outside her professional endeavors, Ms. Bradley finds joy in teaching, bird watching, and photography.
Married, Ms. Bradley met her husband during her 2008 deployment to Iraq. The couple has two children who are considering service-oriented careers in firefighting or law enforcement.