Liz Vogel, CPhT-Adv, CSPT, CPTEd
Pharmacy Education Instructor
Mayo Clinic
Rochester, MN
Certification
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Number of Years at Organization
9 months at Mayo Clinic, 10 years at previous employer, Advocate Health
Why did you become a pharmacy technician?
I became a pharmacy technician a little later in life after exploring a few different career paths and still feeling unsure of what direction to take. A family friend once told me I belonged in healthcare, but I knew I didn’t want a role that was entirely patient facing. I wasn’t aware of all the options available, so I met with a counselor at my local technical college. That’s when I first learned about the pharmacy technician program. At the time, I didn’t even know what a pharmacy technician was, but the program sounded interesting and like something I would truly enjoy. It felt like the perfect fit: I could make a difference in patient care while working more behind the scenes. A few months after completing the program, I was hired at my inpatient clinical site, and that’s where my pharmacy technician career officially began. The rest is history!
How long have you been practicing?
11 years
What are you most proud of in your professional career?
You might think my proudest moment would be earning my Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv) credential, and while that was a significant milestone, what truly stands out for me was giving my first presentation at the Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin (PSW) Educational Conference last year. Public speaking has never been one of my strengths, so this experience really pushed me outside of my comfort zone. But the sense of accomplishment I felt afterward was incredibly rewarding. It not only boosted my confidence but also sparked a new excitement for sharing knowledge with others. Now, I’m looking forward to more opportunities like that.
What is your most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician?
The most memorable experiences for me have been those “aha” moments during training — when a learner has been struggling with something, and suddenly it clicks. Seeing that light bulb turn on is incredibly rewarding, especially now in my role in education. It reminds me why I do what I do and how impactful technician training can be.
Why did you become certified?
I consider myself a lifelong learner and have always been motivated to practice at the top of my pharmacy technician license. Becoming certified was a way to demonstrate my commitment to the profession and to continuous growth. It also allows me to set an example for others and support fellow technicians in reaching that same level of excellence.
What career advice do you have for others interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
Get involved early and explore different areas of pharmacy to find what you’re passionate about. This field offers so many unique paths — don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Advocate for the profession but also advocate for yourself and your growth. There is no limit to how far you can go, both professionally and personally, if you're willing to keep learning and stay engaged.