The writer is retired and probably in his 70s now, so keep that in mind

I assume you're referring to the HN user zabzonk, rather than the article author Donna Vatnick.

The HN user zabzonk's profile description says "Ex C++ programmer and project manager".

It'd be interesting to understand more about their crossover from microbiology into C++ (or vice-versa).

Well, as you ask, I got fed up with dealing with human excrement, urine, blood, pus from wounds etc. I was developing an interest in computing using things like the TRS80, and so decided to switch over. The two (microbiology and microcomputers) had nothing in common. I quickly started using & programming things like DEC VAX & DecSystem10, IBM VM/CMS, Unix in various forms and so on. Now (at 72 years old) I'm retired, but do like to keep my hand in a little.

My observation about female technicians was in no way meant to be derogatory - I had several female managers who I liked very much, and I've always admired female tech's aseptic technique, and other techniques compared with mine.

I think it's more that it's implicitly derogatory to other men. People get annoyed when you speak for them, sort of deal.

I'm a male, I don't write notes on my clothing, and I found the whole comment hilarious

It's possible some folks have thin skin.