Justin Ragle, BTAS, CPhT-Adv, CSPT
Pharmacy Technician Supervisor
University of Cincinnati Medical Center
Cincinnati, OH
Certification
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Number of Years at Organization
9
Why did you become a pharmacy technician?
My career as a pharmacy technician happened somewhat by happy accident. A local pharmacy needed help, and the manager had been my scoutmaster growing up. What I thought was an interview turned out to be my first day on the job. Over time, I grew to love the role, which inspired me to explore the many opportunities available to pharmacy technicians. That unexpected start led to a fulfilling career spanning community, long-term care, acute care, research, and infusion pharmacy settings.
How long have you been practicing?
20 years
What are you most proud of in your professional career?
One aspect of my career that I take great pride in is my time as an investigational drug services (IDS) pharmacy technician, particularly my role on the research team conducting the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine trials. Being a part of such a pivotal moment in medical history and contributing to a project with global impact is something I'll always value deeply.
What is your most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician?
One of my most memorable experiences was being part of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout after the vaccines received emergency use authorization. Having contributed to the research phase through the Moderna trials and then supporting vaccine clinics during public distribution made it an incredibly meaningful and a full-circle moment. Another highlight of my career is the relationships I built with patients early on while working in a community pharmacy; those personal connections left a lasting impact and are something I'll always carry with me.
Why did you become certified?
I initially became certified through state board-approved exams required by my employers. As my career progressed, I chose to pursue national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) to further advance my professional development and demonstrate my commitment to the field. This dedication to growth also led me to obtain additional credentials including the certified compounded sterile preparation technician (CSPT) and advanced certified pharmacy technician (CPhT-Adv).
What career advice do you have for others interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
One of the best pieces of advice I can offer to anyone interested in becoming a pharmacy technician is to stay curious and never stop learning. This field is constantly evolving, and being open to new information and approaches will not only make you a stronger technician but also lead to new opportunities. Don't be afraid to ask questions —whether you're clarifying a process, learning a new medication, or navigating a challenging situation. Questions show you're engaged and invested in doing things the right way. The more you learn, the more confident and capable you become in supporting both your team and the patients you serve.