When people think about the future of pharmacy, they often think about technology, automation, artificial intelligence, or new clinical services. But the future of pharmacy depends on something even more important: People. More specifically, it depends on developing, supporting, and retaining a highly skilled pharmacy technician workforce.
This week’s RxTechTalks highlights the career journey of Caitlin Quigley, CPhT, DPLA, and the critical role health systems play in creating opportunities for pharmacy technicians to learn, grow, and advance.
A Career That Started with Opportunity
Like many pharmacy professionals, Caitlin did not initially set out to become a pharmacy technician.
She began working in a hospital cafeteria before becoming an endoscopy technician. A recommendation to explore pharmacy technician training opened a door she never expected and ultimately changed the trajectory of her career.
Over the past decade, she has served in multiple pharmacy roles while developing a passion for technician advancement, leadership, education, and professional engagement.
Her story is a reminder that some of the most rewarding careers begin with a single opportunity and a willingness to say yes.
Why Health Systems Matter
Health systems are among the most important environments for developing the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
They provide technicians with opportunities to learn advanced skills, support complex patient populations, work with innovative technologies, and collaborate as part of interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
As pharmacy practice continues to evolve, health systems increasingly rely on technicians to support medication safety, automation, inventory management, medication history collection, sterile compounding, and other critical operational functions.
At the same time, many health systems continue to face workforce shortages, recruitment challenges, onboarding demands, and retention concerns.
The solution is not simply hiring more technicians. The solution is building stronger workforce pathways.
The Growing Need for Pharmacy Technicians
The demand for pharmacy technicians continues to grow nationwide.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technician employment is projected to grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 49,000 job openings projected annually.
The profession is growing because:
• The population is aging.
• Chronic disease rates continue to rise.
• Demand for medications continues to increase.
• Pharmacists are taking on more patient care responsibilities.
• Technicians are assuming expanded operational and clinical support roles.
The future of pharmacy depends on developing a workforce prepared to meet these demands.
Supporting the Workforce of Tomorrow
One of Caitlin’s favorite pieces of advice is simple: “Stay curious and get involved.”
Those words perfectly capture what pharmacy workforce development requires. Continuous learning. Professional involvement. Mentorship. Leadership. And a commitment to creating opportunities for others.
As RxTechExam’s Head of Health System Partnerships and Engagement, Caitlin will focus on building relationships with health systems, supporting employer workforce initiatives, strengthening onboarding and engagement programs, facilitating professional development opportunities, and helping create pathways for technicians to thrive throughout their careers.
Because workforce development is not just about helping someone get a job. It’s about helping them build a career.
The Future Is Bright
Caitlin’s journey, from hospital support roles to pharmacy technician, leader, educator, and workforce advocate, demonstrates the incredible opportunities available within our profession. Listen to her Vocal Video here.
As she shared in her Wall of Impact interview: “Pharmacy technicians play a critical role in patient care and healthcare operations. There are more opportunities in this profession than ever, and your career can be whatever you make of it.”
We couldn’t agree more.
The future of pharmacy will be shaped by organizations that invest in people, develop talent, and create opportunities for professional growth.
And that future starts with a strong pharmacy technician workforce.
Wishing you success,
Dr. Abel Guevara III, CPhTAdv
