Pharmacy technician certification pathway established through Stepful partnership
Daniel Longyhore
In July 2024, Enterprise Pharmacy initiated a strategic partnership with Stepful Inc. to support pharmacy technicians employed at Geisinger in meeting certification requirements through structured training and examination preparation. This collaboration provides a formal pathway for technicians to pursue certification through either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the National Healthcareer Association, aligning with internal policy and expanding professional opportunities in the pharmacy workforce.
Under current policy, pharmacy technicians hired into the pharmacy technician I role are required to obtain certification within 24 months to remain eligible for continued employment in a technician capacity. Certification enables advancement to pharmacy technician II and III roles, which offer expanded responsibilities and increased compensation.
These roles allow technicians to participate in sterile compounding, lead independent projects and work in specialized areas such as pediatrics, hematology and oncology.
Certification also serves as a prerequisite for leadership positions, including pharmacy technician supervisor and lead technician roles.
The Stepful program consists of a 15-week classroom curriculum paired with 130 hours of on-site experience. The classroom component is delivered live online twice weekly, with recorded sessions available to accommodate varying schedules. The on-site experience is integrated into the technician’s current role, allowing them to complete the program without leaving their primary position. Supervisors evaluate technician performance during this phase, checking alignment with program standards while maintaining continuity in daily operations.
Tuition for the program is fully covered by Enterprise Pharmacy. In return, technicians commit to remaining in their role at Geisinger for 24 months following program completion.
This work commitment functions as a tuition repayment mechanism. Technicians who fulfill the full term incur no financial obligation. Those who exit the program early or leave the organization before completing the 24-month period are responsible for repaying the remaining tuition balance.
To date, approximately 50 pharmacy technicians have enrolled in the Stepful program. Of those, 38 have completed the training, and 36 successfully passed their certification exam on the first attempt. This is a 95% first-time pass rate, well above the national average for first-time test takers. These outcomes reflect the effectiveness of the program in preparing technicians for certification and supporting their professional development.
While Stepful provides a structured and Geisinger-supported pathway, it is not the only option available to technicians. Technicians may choose to pursue certification through other means, including self-study or enrollment in alternative programs. However, the Stepful partnership offers a consistent, accessible, employer-endorsed route that aligns with organizational standards and operational needs.
Pharmacy technicians play a critical role in the delivery of pharmacy services. Their contributions enable pharmacists and other team members to operate at the top of their license, ensuring safe, efficient, patient-centered care. Recognizing the value of technician expertise, Enterprise Pharmacy continues to invest in initiatives that support technician growth, certification and career advancement.
The partnership with Stepful represents a meaningful step in strengthening the pharmacy technician workforce. By providing structured training, financial support and a clear path to certification, Enterprise Pharmacy reinforces its commitment to workforce development and operational excellence. Future efforts will focus on expanding technician roles and identifying new opportunities to support the profession in the health system.
