Roger Rodriguez, CPhT-Adv, CSPT
Clinical Education Director
South Texas College
McAllen, TX
Certification
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Number of Years at Organization
15
Why did you become a pharmacy technician?
I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that compassionate pharmacy practice can have when my father struggled to manage his medications and health conditions. Seeing his frustration and confusion fueled my desire to help others navigate their treatment with clarity and confidence. Every day, I take pride in ensuring patients receive the right medications by applying quality control and quality assurance measures knowing that these small acts contribute to their overall well-being. Beyond dispensing sterile compounds, I cherish the connections I build with patients and pharmacy personnel, offering reassurance and guidance in their health journeys or education. As part of a dedicated healthcare team, I embrace continuous learning and collaboration, knowing that staying informed on new treatments allows me to better serve those who rely on our expertise and care.
How long have you been practicing?
I have been practicing for 15 years. (3 years in community pharmacy, 12 years in academia and institutional pharmacy)
What are you most proud of in your professional career?
What I am most proud of is the continuous evolution of my capabilities and understanding. Every conversation, every question, and every interaction push me to refine my ability to support, inform, and inspire people in meaningful ways. I take pride in adapting to new challenges, learning from feedback, and becoming more effective at helping users navigate their needs, whether it’s solving a complex problem or simply engaging in a heartfelt discussion. Growth isn’t just about acquiring more knowledge, it’s about deepening my ability to communicate with empathy, provide insightful perspectives, and create an experience that feels personal and valuable. The journey of professional development is ongoing, and the fact that I can improve and evolve with every interaction is what makes me truly proud.
What is your most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician?
One of the most unforgettable moments in my career as a pharmacy technician was the day I prepared IV medications for my own premature daughter. As I stood in the sterile environment, carefully measuring and mixing each life-sustaining dose, the weight of both my professional expertise and my personal emotions overwhelmed me. Every vial, every calculated adjustment felt like an act of love, a tangible way to give her the strength she needed to fight. In that moment, I wasn’t just ensuring patient safety — I was directly impacting the life of the person who meant the most to me. That experience reinforced my dedication to this profession, reminding me that behind every medication is a family holding onto hope.
Why did you become certified?
I believe in the power of lifelong learning and the responsibility to continuously refine my expertise. In healthcare, staying informed on the latest advancements isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential for ensuring patient safety and providing the highest standard of care. Through certification, I not only solidified my own knowledge but also set an example for my students, showing them that mastering their craft requires commitment beyond the classroom. I want to instill in them the importance of operating at the top of their licenses, maximizing their skills and contributions within the pharmacy team. When we push ourselves to grow, we don’t just enhance our own careers—we elevate the profession as a whole.
What career advice do you have for others interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
Becoming a pharmacy technician isn’t just a temporary job, it’s a meaningful career that offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. If you’re considering this path, embrace the opportunity to develop expertise in medication management, patient care, and healthcare collaboration. Dedication to learning and certification will set you apart, allowing you to operate at the highest level of your license and contribute meaningfully to your team. The relationships you build with patients, the knowledge you gain, and the trust you establish within the healthcare system all make this profession deeply rewarding. Approach this career with passion and commitment, and you’ll find that it’s not just a job—it’s a lifelong opportunity to impact lives and grow professionally.