Emily Nangano

I’m a Certified Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) with nearly two decades of experience working in anatomic pathology, clinical laboratory, and laboratory leadership across academic medical centers, community hospitals, and research facilities. Today, I combine that background with my role as a Recruiter and Client Success Manager at Nicklas Laboratory Staffing, a boutique agency founded by a PA and dedicated exclusively to serving the laboratory.

Because I’ve been in the profession myself, I understand the unique skill sets, challenges, and career goals of laboratory professionals—including PAs, histotechnologists, cytologists, MLS/MLTs, and lab leaders. My passion is connecting highly skilled laboratorians with organizations that value their expertise, while helping labs bridge staffing gaps and build strong teams.

In addition to my recruiting work, I serve as Chair of the AAPA Education Committee, where I collaborate with colleagues nationwide to support professional growth and continuing education for PAs. I’m deeply invested in advancing our profession and in mentoring the next generation of laboratorians.

When you work with me, you can count on a recruiter who knows the lab inside and out, listens closely, and advocates fiercely for both candidates and clients.

Recruiting Since
2025

Why I love to recruit
I love recruiting because it’s about creating the right fit for both candidates and clients. Having firsthand experience in both clinical and anatomic pathology allows me to truly understand the unique demands of the lab and the kind of professional qualities that make someone thrive in these environments. I’ve also lived the challenges of severe staffing shortages. Those experiences fuel my commitment to advocate for safe staffing levels and to partner with labs in finding not just “a warm body,” but staff who are productive, collaborative, and invested in patient care. Helping candidates find meaningful opportunities while helping labs build strong, sustainable teams is the most rewarding part of what I do.

When I'm not working I like to
When I’m not connecting labs and candidates, I’m out on our flower farm — Fair Winds Flower Farm, which I own alongside my husband, a proud Navy veteran. We grow fresh flowers, save seeds, and wrangle our lively crew of two dogs (Allie and Amelia), two mischievous farm cats, and a flock of chickens that keep life interesting. I also love to travel, spend time with family, and keep learning new things — whether it’s about farming, new places, or new ideas.

Who I Recruit For