Kimberly Brown

Why I Do What I Do

I am the Program Director for both Advanced and Entry-Level pharmacy tech programs. As a one-person department, I am the primary course, laboratory, and clinical instructor/coordinator. Some of my administrative duties include, overseeing the budget, adhering to ASHP curriculum, and maintaining accreditation. Teaching is my passion and I love to see students realize their goals and find a career in the process.

I also work prn, in the hospital pharmacy. Some of my work responsibilities include medication distribution, inventory management, repackaging, etc. Actively working again, as a pharmacy technician, has enhanced my job as an educator, and I am experiencing the latest updates and changes in pharmacy practice in real time.

Latest Accomplishment

I had the opportunity to serve as a guest surveyor for ASHP accreditation site visits for 2 new programs this past May. When I started at Walters State, it would have been amazing to have someone mentor or help me navigate the world of pharmacy technician education. The visits allowed me to create and build connections with new technician educators, and assist them if they needed it.

Most Memorable Experience as a Pharmacy Technician

One of the most memorable has also been one of the most difficult. During the height of the pandemic, I participated in several codes, running back and forth, from the pharmacy to ICU, with more epi, bicarb, etc.  Seeing multiple, ventilated patients in one ICU room or patients lined down hallways, was definitely something I had never seen before as a technician.  

Why I Became Certified

I was fortunate to graduate from one of the first ASHP accredited training programs in TN and then sit for the exam in 1996 (the original 140 question, 3-hour PTCB exam!) At that time, our instructor, encouraged us to sit for the certification exam, to get a better job and salary after graduation. Certification was new, but many employers valued the credential.

My Passion Outside of Work

When I am not working, I spend time with my 3 adult sons and family. I like to think of myself as an amateur “DIYer”, decorator, and crafter.  

Latest Book Read

Heart Failure, by Richard L. Mabry.

Advice to Up-and-Coming Technicians

Being a pharmacy technician is more than counting pills!  Educate others about the work that you do. Be open to thinking outside the box. Do not limit yourself to only one area or field of pharmacy. Continue to educate yourself and advocate for our profession. You are the backbone of the pharmacy and you should be valued as such.