If you're a pharmacy technician in Connecticut looking to increase your salary, there are steps you can take to improve your chances. By following these tips, you can potentially earn a higher income in your field.

Obtain Certification from PTCB or ExCPT: Getting certified as a pharmacy technician through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) can lead to higher paying job opportunities. Many employers in Connecticut prefer certified pharmacy technicians, so having this credential can boost your salary potential.

Gain Experience in Specialty Areas: Specializing in a specific area such as compounding, oncology, or nuclear pharmacy can make you more valuable to employers and increase your earning potential. Consider seeking out specialized training or certification programs offered by local institutions like the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy.

Pursue Continuing Education: Continuing education courses and certifications can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and may lead to salary increases. Look for opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills through programs offered by organizations like the Connecticut Pharmacists Association.

Seek Employment at Hospitals or Specialty Clinics: Hospital pharmacy technicians and those working in specialty clinics often earn higher salaries than those working in retail settings. Consider applying for positions at hospitals like Yale New Haven Hospital or specialty clinics like Connecticut Children's Medical Center.

Negotiate for Higher Pay: When applying for a new job or during a performance review, don't be afraid to negotiate for a higher salary. Research the average pharmacy technician salary in Connecticut and come prepared with data to support your request for a raise.

Choosing a career in the healthcare field can be a fulfilling decision. If you're considering becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Connecticut, know that it's a line of work filled with opportunities for growth and advancement. The journey involves a few key steps, including acquiring the right education, getting certified, and registering with the state board.

Education
Your journey starts with a high school diploma or GED. From there, you'll need to enroll in a pharmacy technician training program. These programs are typically available at community colleges and vocational schools, like Manchester Community College and the Porter and Chester Institute.

But did you know there's an equally effective alternative? That's where Stepful comes into the picture. As an online education platform, Stepful is not only the most affordable option but also the fastest. It offers flexible scheduling, allowing you to balance your studies with other responsibilities.

>> Read More: How Much Do Pharmacy Technician School & Certification Cost?

Certification
Once your education is complete, it's time to get certified. In Connecticut, Pharmacy Technicians need to be certified by either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The certification process includes an examination covering various pharmacy-related topics. Keep in mind, you'll need to renew this certification every two years, which requires 20 more hours of continuing education.

>> Read More: Pharmacy Technician Certification Options (PTCB, NHA, CPhT, & More)

State Registration
The final piece of the puzzle is registering with the Connecticut State Board of Pharmacy. This step is non-negotiable; all Pharmacy Technicians must be registered to work legally in the state. The registration process requires an application, a fee, and evidence of your certification. Remember, you'll need to renew this registration yearly.

Pharmacy technicians are expected to see steady career opportunities nationwide over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is anticipated to generate roughly 47,400 job openings each year, largely due to retirements and people moving into other roles.

In Connecticut, pharmacy technicians are vital to the delivery of healthcare services in retail settings, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. As of May 2023, approximately 4,930 pharmacy technicians were employed across the state. With an employment concentration of 2.968 per 1,000 jobs and a location quotient of 0.98, Connecticut’s demand for pharmacy technicians closely mirrors national trends.

For those considering a career in pharmacy technology, Connecticut offers stable job prospects and access to diverse work environments.