As a Science Graduate at Slade Health Geebung, she plays a vital role in ensuring patients receive the medication they need.
To mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11 February, we spoke to Carmen about her journey into science, her role at Slade Health, and the impact she hopes to make in the industry.
Born and raised in South Africa, Carmen moved to the Gold Coast with her family 13 years ago. Her interest in science began in high school, where she was encouraged to think beyond traditional career paths. This led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology at the University of Queensland, graduating in 2024 before joining Slade Health as a production technician.
With a personal connection to cancer, Carmen was drawn to Slade Health to gain a deeper understanding of the treatment process.
“I chose Slade because I love knowing my work directly impacts patient care and makes a positive difference,” Carmen said.
Beyond the technical aspects of her role, Carmen values the supportive and collaborative environment at Slade Health.
“The team here is passionate about making a difference. Everyone is working towards the same goal, which keeps me motivated,” she shared.
As a recent graduate, Carmen appreciates the opportunities available at Slade Health to grow her skills and advance her career.
“At Slade, they encourage continuous learning and exploration of new opportunities. The training and experience I’ve gained in a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) environment have been incredibly valuable for my future,” she said.
Her role spans multiple stages of production, from decontamination to compounding and sealing. While the work can be repetitive, she remains focused on the bigger picture.
“When I see a patient’s name or hear a positive patient story, it reminds me why I do this work and pushes me forward,” Carmen explained.
Carmen aspires to transition into a quality or research role, applying her microbiology background to enhance patient care and improve pharmaceutical processes.
“My goal is to use my skills to contribute to patient care on an even larger scale,” she said.
“Working at Slade Health has shown me that I can make a real impact, and I’m excited for what’s next.”
