Identifying Training Opportunities: A Technician’s Guide to Growth

Introduction

Pharmacy technicians are more than task-doers—we’re precision-driven professionals. Whether you’re new to the field or years deep, identifying training opportunities is key to staying sharp, expanding your scope, and protecting patient safety. This guide helps you spot, evaluate, and act on the right training paths.

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Section 1: Know Your Current Scope

• Review your state regulations and certification level (CPhT, RPhT)
• Understand what’s allowed in your setting: retail, hospital, infusion
• Ask: What tasks do I perform daily, and what could I be doing with more training?

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Section 2: Where to Look for Training

• Employer-sponsored programs (in-service, CE credits, cross-training)
• Professional organizations (PTCB, NPTA, ASHP)
• Online platforms (MyCPhT, CE providers, pharmacy forums)
• Mentorship: Ask experienced techs what helped them level up

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Section 3: Match Training to Your Goals

Goal	Training Focus
Transition to Home Infusion	Sterile compounding, IV prep, USP <797>
Pediatric Pharmacy	Weight-based dosing, safety protocols
Tech-Check-Tech Roles	Accuracy audits, advanced verification
Career Advancement	Leadership, communication, billing & coding

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Section 4: Red Flags to Avoid

• Outdated content or non-accredited sources
• One-size-fits-all courses that ignore technician scope
• Training with no clear application to your current or future role

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Technician Takeaway

Growth isn’t passive—it’s planned.
The best training aligns with your goals, your setting, and your impact.
Ask questions. Seek feedback. Stay teachable.

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“Training isn’t just a checkbox—it’s how you sharpen your edge.”