Jennifer L Stewart

Why I Do What I Do
I want to be proud. Many of us were raised to complete high school then college and then get a job. I didn't just want a job. I wanted a career that I enjoyed and was rewarded both emotionally and hopefully financially if I succeeded. I have seen lives changed and impacted by what I was able to accomplish and that created a landslide trajectory for me to continue in the pharmacy technician field.

Latest Accomplishment
I was able to start promoting pharmacy technician advancement with my employer. They have encourage me to engage and move forward with developing a local chapter of a technician organization. It is still in the works but I have complete confidence in its development and its future goals of providing pharmacy technician advocacy.

Most Memorable Experience as a Pharmacy Technician
I have been in this field for 21 years. There have been many moments but by far was when I was given the opportunity to start a new pharmacy in our area. I was given many responsibilities and was often engulfed in issues, tasks and stressed but the result of my work was overwhelmingly appreciated. I have never forgotten the words my pharmacist told me. She said you are doing this all, I am here to make it legal. Her faith and desire for me to find a place and succeed has never left my heart. It continues to fuel my drive to accomplish more than what is expected.

Why I Became Certified
I was in the field almost 13 years before becoming certified. It was not required and I was in school pursuing another field of study. My years of working in a retail pharmacy provided me with a thorough on hand training and education to pass the exam. I was requested to take the exam to justify my pay. However, today looking back I realize it was a valuable certificate regardless of pay.

My Passion Outside of Work
I love to spend time at the beach. However my new obsession is binge watching BBC and PBS Masterpiece Theater programs. (Downton Abbey, Sanditon, Poldark) But I will have to say my greatest passion is my daughter. I am a helicopter mom and obsessed with spoiling her as much as I possible!

Latest Book Read
When Heaven and Earth Changed Places, Le Ly Hayslip.

Advice to Up-and-Coming Technicians
Pursue every opportunity available to you that you are passionate about. Do not allow someone to ever make you say, "I am just a tech." I said that for many years and unfortunately until recently it often plagued my mind and attitude. We have opportunities for advancement and are assets to our field. They may not be compensated in currency but you can never have too many credentials and experience for personal growth.