What you don’t see: The work of CAF Medical Laboratory Technologists

April 10, 2026 - Defence Stories

By Sgt Junkyu Lee, Medical Laboratory Technologist, Canadian Forces Health Services Centre (Edmonton)

Often working behind the scenes, Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLab Techs) play a key role in the Canadian Forces health system by providing timely, accurate test results that support patient care and operational readiness in Canada and abroad. As we mark National Medical Laboratory Week from April 12to 18, I invite you to take a closer look inside the lab.

When people think of medical professionals, MLab Techs are not usually the first to come to mind. Yet up to 70% of medical decisions rely on laboratory test results for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. As a small military trade of fewer than 30 members, our presence is often unseen, but our impact is significant across the full spectrum of care.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought our work into the spotlight. "PCR test" (ie. Polymerase chain reaction test) became part of everyday vocabulary, and many people gained a better understanding of what happens in the lab. During this time, MLab Techs supported high-volume testing to ensure deploying members remained medically ready. The pace and demand reinforced the importance of accuracy, consistency, and teamwork under pressure.

The pandemic was also my first experience deploying outside Canada aboard His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Winnipeg. I helped set up a molecular testing capability on a moving frigate, where workspace layout, contamination control, and equipment setup had to be carefully planned. Conducting lab tests at sea creates unique challenges; even one unexpected shift in the ship's motion can cause important equipment to fall and risk cross-contamination of patient samples.

In 2025, I deployed on back-to-back taskings, from the Arctic aboard Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix in support of Operation REASSURANCE, to the Caribbean and Latin America aboard United States Naval Ship (USNS) Comfort during Operation CONTINUING PROMISE. On MV Asterix, we established expanded onboard lab capabilities to support both Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and NATO members. On USNS Comfort, we worked alongside United States and partner nation personnel to provide care in local communities while representing Canada and strengthening international partnerships.

Across these deployments, resource management was critical. In environments where even basic supplies can be limited, careful planning, logistics, and adaptability are essential to maintaining laboratory capability. Every test result depends not only on technical skill, but also on anticipating needs and managing constraints.

Looking ahead, I am excited to participate in the Joint Support Ship project, including HMCS Protecteur and HMCS Preserver, will further expand laboratory capabilities at sea, bringing diagnostic services closer to patients during maritime operations.

National Medical Laboratory Week is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of MLab Techs across the CAF. The next time you visit a clinic or laboratory, take a moment to learn more about the work happening behind the scenes and the role it plays in supporting both patient care and mission success.