Briana Wukovich, CPhT-Adv, CSPT
Certified Pharmacy Technician Acute Care Specialist, OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital
Professional Development and Continuing Education Coordinator, Ohio Pharmacists Association
Delaware, OH
Certification
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Number of Years at Organization
6 years at OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital & 1 year at the Ohio Pharmacists Association
Why did you become a pharmacy technician?
I kind of fell into pharmacy. There was an opening for a pharmacy technician at Kroger when I was working at the customer service desk, and I decided to transfer. I fell in love with pharmacy and wanted to learn as much as I could about it to see what other fun opportunities I could pursue.
How long have you been practicing?
Fourteen years.
What are you most proud of in your professional career?
I am most proud of the continuing education modules that I have authored for pharmacy technicians. It feels good to give some of my knowledge and experience back to the profession. More recently, I am proud to say that I now work for my state association, and I am the editorial designer of our pharmacy journal!
What is your most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician?
I wouldn't say it was one moment in particular, but I have really enjoyed working in infusion/oncology. I gained a ton of knowledge around sterile compounding and hazardous drug handling. I also really enjoy sterile compounding; something about it helps me feel in the zone.
Why did you become certified?
I wanted to expand my pharmacy opportunities outside of community pharmacy. My employer and state didn't require it at the time, but I had a lot of interest in working in a hospital pharmacy and it was a requirement to be able to work there.
What career advice do you have for others interested in becoming a pharmacy technician?
Get curious. Look into all the possible career pivots out there that are available to you. Don't let yourself get stuck in a position where you feel like you can no longer grow and develop your skills. There are plenty of opportunities out here to learn, figure out which one would be best for you! Also get involved with your state and national associations. The more voices and perspectives we have the better!