The grant has been awarded to a research team led by Shane P. Desselle, RPh, PhD, FAPhA (Touro University California), and Kimberly C. McKeirnan, PharmD, PhD Candidate 2026 (Washington State University). The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, including key informant interviews and a quantitative survey, to gather crucial data from stakeholders.

“Mentorship is a recognized principal driver in individual satisfaction, career mobility, and engagement within a profession,” said William Schimmel, PTCB Executive Director and CEO. “This research is a vital first step in determining the feasibility of a formal, national program that could help mitigate burnout and turnover, and further enhance the professional stature of CPhTs across the United States.”

Key Research Components and Timeline

The initial inquiry will focus on gathering information on the favorability of a mentorship program, perceived training needs for both mentors and mentees, preferred types of support and resources, and expectations regarding time commitment and benefits.

Findings from the research are expected to be disseminated in July 2026 at the Pharmacy Technician Educators Council (PTEC) Conference in San Antonio, Texas.

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What is Changing?
PTCB conducted a job analysis this year to identify key changes in pharmacy billing and reimbursement practice, which resulted in a revised exam content outline. The two most significant changes are:

• Greater emphasis on medical billing services offered by pharmacies; and
• Enhanced detail and more specific examples across knowledge areas.

The exam length will also increase from 70 questions to 75. The exam time will remain the same.

Are Recognized/Training Education Programs (REPs) Also Changing?
Yes, both the PharmCon and American Society of Health-system Pharmacists (ASHP) programs will be updated to align with the updated exam content outline.

• PharmCon updated their program on November 13, 2025 to reflect the new content outline.
• ASHP will release an updated version of its program expected in late Spring of 2026.

Candidates who completed the earlier versions of these programs should take the exam before January 5, 2026, or supplement their studies to align with the new content outline.

When Will Scores Be Available?
Exam scores for the updated exam will be available approximately three to four months after the launch date. This time is needed for PTCB to conduct item and exam analysis and implement quality assurance procedures.

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This release was originally published by NCPA.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Nov. 20, 2025) – The National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and PCCA today announced the launch of Compounding PATH for Technicians, a compounding program designed to elevate pharmacy technicians to nationally recognized training standards. This inaugural program represents an unprecedented collaboration among organizations dedicated to helping compounding technicians best serve patients.

“This collaboration sets a new bar for pharmacy technician advancement,” said NCPA CEO Douglas Hoey, RPh, MBA. “By bringing together PCCA’s deep compounding expertise, NCPA’s commitment to community pharmacy success and PTCB’s nationally recognized standards, Compounding PATH for Technicians delivers unmatched credibility and a clear pathway for technicians to grow their careers while driving pharmacy performance.”

Compounding PATH is a comprehensive, hybrid learning experience that prepares technicians to meet the highest benchmarks in nonsterile compounding practice and professional growth. The curriculum includes pre-study followed by a 2.5-day intensive, hands-on laboratory training at PCCA headquarters in Houston. The ACPE-approved continuing education credit is provided by NCPA, aligning education with compliance, quality and operational value. Graduates will be prepared to take PTCB’s Nonsterile Compounding Certificate Exam and can apply this accomplishment toward earning the CPhT-Advanced credential.

“Compounding pharmacies thrive when their teams operate at the top of their training and purpose,” said PCCA CEO Gus Bassani, PharmD. “Compounding PATH for Technicians provides the practical, standards-based education that our member pharmacy owners and technicians have asked for, built by the organizations they trust.”

“The Compounding PATH for Technicians program provides pharmacy technicians with the hands-on training and skills they need to advance their careers by earning PTCB’s Nonsterile Compounding Certificate,” said PTCB Chief Professional Officer Liza Chapman. “We’re proud to partner with PCCA and NCPA to deliver this nationally recognized training that elevates the critical role technicians play in patient care.”

Enrollment is limited for 2026, with two scheduled offerings March 23-25 and Aug. 31-Sept. 2, for $2,495 USD per technician. Pharmacy technicians are encouraged to secure seats for their technicians early. 

Learn more and register: Compounding PATH for Technicians 

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This integration will allow PTCB-certified technicians to seamlessly manage and showcase their credentials within the Pharmacy Profiles platform, enhancing visibility and trust among employers, health plans, and other stakeholders. PTCB will provide Pharmacy Profiles with verified credential data for pharmacy technicians who have obtained a National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) e-Profile ID and have consented to share their information.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to empowering pharmacy technicians and supporting the broader pharmacy workforce,” said Mark Pilkington, executive director of Pharmacy Profiles. “By connecting verified credential data directly to technician profiles, we’re reducing administrative burden and enabling more efficient credentialing processes across the profession.”

The agreement also outlines strict data privacy and compliance standards, ensuring that all shared information is handled in accordance with applicable laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act and other relevant federal and state regulations.

“This collaboration with Pharmacy Profiles represents an important step forward in our efforts to ensure pharmacy technicians receive recognition for their critical work focused on medication,” said William Schimmel, PTCB executive director and CEO. “We’re proud to contribute to a more connected and transparent credentialing ecosystem.”

The initiative is now in effect, with implementation efforts underway to support technician onboarding and data integration.

Claim your free profile and learn more.

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The CPTEd Certification, introduced by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) in March 2025, is the first national credential specifically designed for educators, instructors, and trainers of pharmacy technicians. Developed with input from PTEC, this certification establishes a new benchmark for excellence in pharmacy technician education.

“We are incredibly proud to honor the first cohort of CPTEd-certified educators,” said William Schimmel, CEO and Executive Director of PTCB. “These individuals have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their craft and are setting the standard for preparing the next generation of pharmacy technicians. Their commitment is crucial as pharmacy technicians take on increasingly vital roles in healthcare.”

The CPTEd Certification requires candidates to meet rigorous eligibility criteria, including holding a pharmacy technician certification or pharmacy degree and possessing at least three years of experience in pharmacy education or training. They must also pass both a multiple-choice and a written exam, ensuring they possess both the instructional expertise and comprehensive industry knowledge needed to effectively train future pharmacy technicians.

“Being among the first to earn the CPTEd is incredibly validating,” states Mark Brunton, CPhT, MSHE, CPTEd, who serves as Dean of Faculty Development at Northwest Career College, and on PTEC’s Leadership Committee. “This credential sets a much-needed national standard for pharmacy technician educators, giving us the recognition we deserve while assuring employers and students that they are engaging with top-tier, certified instructors.”

The recognition event was a highlight of the PTEC conference, which drew a near-record attendance of educators from across the nation. The event provided a dynamic forum for professional development, with sessions and workshops focused on the evolving landscape of pharmacy technician education.

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Certified Pharmacy Technician Educator (CPTEd) Certification Program

Pharmacy technician educators play a critical role in preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. The CPTEd Certification recognizes their expertise, validates their skills, and underscores their commitment to excellence in education.

“Pharmacy technician educators are the foundation of a well-trained workforce,” said William Schimmel, CEO and Executive Director of PTCB. “With education and training varying across the field, this certification establishes a national benchmark for educators to support technicians with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.”

To earn CPTEd Certification, candidates must meet rigorous eligibility requirements, including holding a pharmacy technician certification or pharmacy degree and having at least three years of experience in pharmacy education or training. They must also pass both a multiple-choice exam and a written exam within a 12-month period—ensuring they have the instructional expertise and industry knowledge to effectively train future pharmacy technicians.

With pharmacy technicians taking on increasingly complex roles across diverse healthcare settings, standardizing educator qualifications has never been more important.

“This certification benefits everyone—educators seeking professional recognition, employers hiring qualified instructors, and students looking for high-quality training programs,” Schimmel added. “It’s a game-changer for pharmacy technician education.”

Learn more about the CPTEd credential.

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Over the past three decades, PTCB has granted a total of more than 840,000 certifications. Today’s 300,000+ pharmacy technicians who are active CPhTs highlight the significant impact PTCB has had on the pharmacy technician profession and patient safety. PTCB also recently reached over 2,000 active Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs-Adv), a first-of-its-kind credential in the industry recognizing experienced technicians taking on expanded responsibilities as critical pharmacy team members.

“PTCB is honored to celebrate 30 years of serving the pharmacy technician profession and promoting patient safety,” said William Schimmel, PTCB CEO and Executive Director. “The 300,000 active CPhTs demonstrate the dedication and expertise of pharmacy technicians across the country. We are proud to support them in their careers and look forward to continued growth in the profession.”

PTCB’s mission and focus on patient safety, innovation, and collaboration began in 1995 when it administered the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam to 7,473 technicians in the first year. Since then, PTCB has become the premier national credentialing organization for pharmacy technicians, offering a wide range of credentials and resources to support technicians in their careers. In the 30 years since PTCB’s founding, the organization has seen an increase in career longevity among pharmacy technicians. PTCB’s 2022 Workforce Survey results show that PTCB CPhTs stay longer in their careers and longer with their employers than other pharmacy technicians. This impact is especially critical as workforce shortages continue to challenge healthcare systems nationwide.

From its very beginning, PTCB has been a story of collaboration. In 1995, PTCB was established by the American Pharmacists Association; American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists; and Michigan Pharmacists Association; and joined by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy in 2001 and the National Community Pharmacists Association in 2022. By fostering relationships with employers and associations across the industry, PTCB has been a strong presence in the national pharmacy scene, helping shape state regulations and advance the pharmacy technician profession.

“PTCB is committed to advancing the pharmacy technician profession and ensuring that patients receive safe and effective care,” said Schimmel. “We will continue to work with our partners to support pharmacy technicians and promote patient safety.”

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The second cohort began with an impactful in-person kickoff session, setting the stage for an intensive three-month journey. This was followed by five interactive online sessions where participants explored leadership concepts, honed their skills, and engaged in self-reflection, peer collaboration, and mentorship.

This fall’s cohort included the following pharmacy technicians from across a range practice settings:

Autumn Hawks, CPhT-Adv, CAPM
Assistant Professor/Clinical Coordinator, Salt Lake Community College

Erin Michael, CPhT, MBA, MS, FAPC
Director of Member Engagement, PCCA

Kristen Snair, MSJ, CPhT
AZ Board of Pharmacy Member
Licensing Compliance and Regulatory Affairs, Olympia Pharmaceuticals

Diane Halvorson, RPhTech, CPhT-Adv
ND Board of Pharmacy Member
Senior Pharmacy Technician-Inventory Control Specialist, Sanford Medical Center

Mark Sciaraffa, CPhT
Pharmacy Technician Supervisor, Massachusetts General Hospital

Keith Binion, MEd, CPhT
MI Board of Pharmacy Member
Dean of Campus Operations, Wayne Community College District

Meredith Ayers, CPhT-Adv, CHW
Development Specialist, Bremo Pharmacy

Julie Lanza, CPhT-Adv, CSPT, FMSHP
Director of Training and Education, Beth Israel Lahey Health

Trisha Yvonne Makowski, CPHT, PhTR
Certified Pharmacy Technician, Walmart Mail Order

Briana Wukovich, CPhT-Adv, CSPT
Professional Development and Continuing Education Coordinator, Ohio Pharmacists Association

Anthony K. Exum, CPhT-Adv
Pharmacy Technician Med History, HCA Mission Health

Carrie Stephens, CPhT-Adv, CHW
Administrative Director, Hoagland Pharmacy

Participants emerged from the experience with renewed purpose and enhanced leadership capabilities. Diane Halvorson shared, “I feel rejuvenated and have a better understanding of how to be able to serve the pharmacy profession as a leader, mentor, co-worker, and friend.”

Julie Lanza described the program as transformative: “Being part of the Leadership Institute was, by far, the most challenging and equally rewarding experience of my professional path as a pharmacy technician leader. Examining & evaluating my strengths and weaknesses as a leader on a deeper, more vulnerable level led me to a place of self-reflection about the type of leader I want to be for myself and for other technicians. PLEI challenged me to look at things differently and gave me the resources and education to apply new ideas & skills. PLEI & this cohort of technicians left me with a new outlook, new mentors, new friends, and most importantly—a new version of the leader I want to be.”

The Leadership Institute builds on PTCB’s vision to advance patient care and safety. By partnering with PLEI, the program ensures participants not only gain practical tools to excel as leaders within pharmacy but also connect with a supportive network of peers and mentors.

“We’re thrilled by the incredible progress and outcomes achieved by our second cohort,” said Ryan Burke, PharmD, Senior Director of Professional Affairs at PTCB. “The Leadership Institute continues to empower pharmacy technicians to become the strong leaders that our profession needs now and into the future.”

As PTCB continues to grow the Leadership Institute, it remains committed to supporting pharmacy technicians in leadership roles and driving positive change across the pharmacy landscape.

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This program, generously supported by a grant from Pfizer, will provide crucial resources to pharmacy technician education and training programs, enabling them to offer immunization training to their students. With the growing demand for vaccination services, this initiative will ensure that future pharmacy technicians are equipped to play a vital role in public health efforts from the moment they enter the workforce.

"Pharmacy technicians have become essential in ensuring patients have access to vaccinations, and this grant program will help ensure that they are prepared to meet that demand," said PTCB Senior Director of Professional Affairs Ryan Burke, PharmD. “We are grateful to Pfizer for their generous support of pharmacy technician education.”

The Pharmacy Technician Educators Council (PTEC), a division of PTCB, will administer the grant program. To be eligible, an education program applicant must be an active PTEC member and a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program. If selected, students enrolled in the program will complete the APhA/WSU Pharmacy-Based Immunization Administration by Pharmacy Technicians at no cost. The two-part training program emphasizes health care team collaboration between pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and includes an online, self-paced course and an interactive, hands-on training session.

PTEC Chair Sacha Tadros, PharmD, thinks PTEC is a natural fit to administer this grant program. "By empowering educators and integrating immunization training into pharmacy technician education, we are creating a stronger, more versatile workforce capable of supporting the nation’s public health needs."

This new grant program aims to increase vaccination rates across the country by preparing pharmacy technicians to deliver immunizations as part of their regular duties where allowed by state regulations. The initiative is expected to have both immediate and long-term benefits, including improved access to immunization services and reduced incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly in communities with limited healthcare resources.

For more information and to apply for the grant program, visit ptec.org.

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A panel consisting of 11 CPhTs and two pharmacists, representing a variety of pharmacy practice settings, served as subject matter experts (SMEs) throughout the process. The panel met twice in person (October 2023 and April 2024) and conducted work remotely as well. The panel’s main responsibilities included developing the content for national surveys of pharmacy technician practice, reviewing analyses of the survey data, and making recommendations to the PTCB Certification Council, an autonomous standing committee responsible for the establishment and administration of PTCB’s credentialing programs.

The panel developed two surveys, one consisting of tasks performed by pharmacy technicians and the other focusing on knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required to effectively perform the pharmacy technician job. Non-certified pharmacy technicians and all PTCB CPhTs nationwide were invited to participate. Due to the length of the surveys, participants were randomly assigned either the task or KSA survey. In total, 6,327 respondents completed the task survey, and 6,563 completed the KSA survey.

The PTCB Certification Council reviewed the panel’s recommendations in August 2024 and approved an updated PTCE Content Outline and CPhT Knowledge Reference for implementation in January 2026. Similar to the current PTCE Content Outline, the updated PTCE Content Outline will continue to focus on core KSAs applicable to both of the largest sectors of pharmacy: community/retail and hospital/health-system practice settings. The updated PTCE Content Outline retains the same four domains and total test length. A list of notable changes is provided below.

• Content pertaining to nonsterile compounding is removed, specifically, knowledge areas 1.9 and 4.1 of the current content outline as well as “alligations” from 4.2.
• Knowledge area 1.8, Narrow Therapeutic Index (NTI) medications, is removed. Information about NTI medications may still be covered in other areas, if relevant.
• A knowledge area pertaining to the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) is added.
• The content distribution across the four domains has changed, such that the percentage of content in the Medications and Patient Safety and Quality Assurance Domains is reduced, and the percentage of content in the Federal Requirements and Order Entry and Processing Domains is increased.

The PTCE is anticipated to undergo these updates in January 2026.

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