Unique Pharmacy Technician Career Ladder Meets the Needs of a Growing Profession

Author(s)Jamie Collett, CPhT-Adv, CPTEd, DPLA, Matthew Rewald, MBA, CPhT, DPLA

Technological change and COVID-19–related staffing challenges have intensified the need for pharmacy technician career growth and retention strategies. Mayo Clinic implemented an inclusive 5-tier career ladder with expanded training and compensation, reducing turnover by nearly 50% and improving satisfaction, demonstrating the impact of structured advancement on workforce stability and professional development.

The practice of pharmacy has undergone significant transformation in recent decades, marked by increasing complexity, technological innovation, and expanded care delivery models. The integration of automation and artificial intelligence has significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of pharmacy technicians and the overall operations of pharmacies. However, these advancements also present challenges, including the need for continuous monitoring, regular maintenance, and management of downtime, all of which can impact the smooth functioning of pharmacy operations. The COVID-19 pandemic imposed significant hardships on staffing and retention, furthering the need to evaluate and enhance the technician career.