Amplifying Technicians: Keyerrá Buckley, CPhT

In episode 10 of Amplifying Technicians, host Taylor Watterson is joined by Keyerrá Buckley, CPhT, ACPE administrator and technical trainer, Pharmacy Starts.

Buckley shares her personal evolution from a student in a 12-week vocational program to a leader supporting continuing pharmacy education. The conversation centers on redefining the technician career path, challenging the perception that the role is merely a stepping stone to becoming a pharmacist, and instead, highlighting it as a distinct field where one can make a true impact.

A central highlight of the discussion is Buckley’s advocacy for lifelong learning and career advancement through stackable education and specialized credentials. She recounts her own journey of finding a program that valued her professional experience and discusses the vast career ladders available to technicians today, including roles in health informatics, regulatory oversight, and even homeland security.

She also introduces her platform, “The Pharm - Where Careers Grow,” which provides career development services like resume writing and interview prep, helping technicians translate transferable skills into diverse professional opportunities.

This episode serves as a call to action for both pharmacy leaders and technicians to “amplify” the profession by investing in professional development and self-advocacy. Buckley encourages employers to foster long-term success through educational reimbursement, community engagement, and better pay to retain talent.

For technicians, episode 10 offers a message of persistence: to continue networking, volunteering, and following their passions to blaze their own trails. By moving beyond traditional boxes, technicians can build meaningful, long-term careers that reflect their true value within the health care community.

Be sure to tune in each month on Drug Topics for conversations that highlight the impact of pharmacy technicians and the many ways they are advancing the profession. All episodes of Amplifying Technicians will be available in video format via DrugTopics.com on the last Tuesday of each month. Check out our most recent episode featuring Watterson, who discussed the metrics used to assess the pharmacy workforce.