The University of Rochester celebrates our incredible employees who make the University a better place to work, grow, and serve. In this series, get to know some of the many individuals who turn our mission into action each day—one story at a time.
Care you can count on—Meet members of our pharmacy technician team
Da’Ishana Williams
Pharmacy Tech
Inpatient Pharmacy at Strong Hospital
How would you describe a typical day as a pharmacy technician (tech)?
My bustling day starts with reviewing, delivering, and preparing medication orders, and ensuring accurate dispensing of prescriptions for hospital patients while under the pharmacist’s supervision. I spend a lot of time managing inventory, as well as compounding, preparing, and delivering medications all over the hospital. I also answer phone calls that come to the pharmacy. While logging more than 10,000 steps a day, this role demands precision, teamwork, and effective communication to support patient care, safety, and coordination with healthcare staff throughout the day.
How did you get started as a pharmacy tech?
I came across the pharmacy tech position on Indeed. I applied with no experience, no knowledge of anything pharmacy-related, and they welcomed me to the Inpatient Pharmacy team. I have learned so much here at the hospital and not just about pharmacy.
What part of your work do you find most rewarding?
The most rewarding part of my role is knowing that my work directly contributes to improving patient health and safety. This provides me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Having the opportunity to work as part of a healthcare team and make a difference in patients’ lives, often during their vulnerable moments, gives me a strong sense of pride and accomplishment in my role. Plus, gaining knowledge and meeting new people are always WINs.
What is one thing people might not realize about pharmacy technicians, or what is one task that people might not realize is important?
Most people don’t see what we do but, pharm techs are the backbone of the hospital’s ability to provide reliable medical treatment in a timely manner. Inpatient pharmacy techs prioritize accuracy and safety, and some preparations require time to ensure no errors compromise patient care. For example, if a med is a STAT (timely request), it might take at least 10 minutes to prepare and deliver; in some cases, it requires even more time to get the medication sent on its way. That’s why communication is important for techs, pharmacists, and patient caregivers.
How do you work with pharmacists in support of patient care?
Pharmacy technicians and pharmacists have close partnerships, allowing the pharmacists to focus on clinical oversight and decision making while techs ensure accuracy and efficiency. The teamwork between them helps to reduce errors, streamline workflows, and ensure patients receive safe and timely treatments.
What skills or strengths help you most in your role?
Attention to detail, teamwork, organizational and communication skills, customer service, technical proficiency, and adaptability to anything, including the stress of workload and change, have helped me excel in the pharmacy technician role.
What advice would you give to someone considering this field?
Becoming a pharmacy technician opens many doors for career growth and opportunities in healthcare. And, bonus, you gain hands-on experience!
Janiya (Courtney) Vassell
Pharmacy Tech Trainee
Inpatient Pharmacy at Strong Hospital
How would you describe a typical day as a pharmacy technician (tech) trainee?
I arrive for my shift at 8:30 p.m. and I begin completing cart orders for the following morning. I also restock supplies and read new order labels as new orders are being dispensed.
How do you feel your role makes a difference for patients?
I think our Inpatient Pharmacy is the backbone of the hospital. We fill medications in a timely manner, reload Pyxis (automated medical dispensing system) machines if they are out of stock, and replace medications as needed.
What part of your work do you find most rewarding?
I appreciate the flexibility my schedule provides me.
What is one thing people might not realize about pharmacy technicians, or what is one task that people might not realize is important?
A lot of the medications have similar names, dosages, or even strengths. It makes the job 1000% less stressful knowing that we have a strong attention to safety and our systems also help prevent errors.
What skills or strengths help you most in your role?
Attention to detail is a huge asset.
How would you describe your team or the pharmacy work environment?
My overnight team is full of humor and people who don’t mind lending a hand to complete tasks.
What advice would you give to someone considering this field?
The trainee program provides hands-on experience, and the Inpatient Pharmacy staff are more than willing to help you succeed.
What’s the best advice you’ve received in your career?
Everything doesn’t need to be stored in your head, and never be afraid to ask follow-up questions.
