Transforming our communities through care starts with finding the people who feel called to serve and connecting them to programs that equip them to succeed.
Texas Health’s Career Transformation Center, part of Texas Health Resources University (THRU), specializes in opportunities that empower our workforce. One of those programs is based on strategic academic partnerships that engage with colleges and universities. Aligning with those institutions supports our goals of building future care teams and reinforcing Texas Health as a committed community organization.
“Our program bridges the gap between learning and care by creating opportunities for employees and external candidates to reflect the diverse services we provide,” said Jerry Stern, MS-HRTD, program manager, Academic Partnership & Grants.
On the FastTrack
The pharmacy technician apprenticeship program, supported by pharmacy leaders and THRU, creates a path for individuals who want to get into pharmacy but may not know where to start.
Heba Ali knew her passion for working in healthcare could go to the next level by joining the academic partnership program. Texas Health’s pipeline programs help fast-track different careers, such as pharmacy technicians, which meant Ali could make an impact right away.
“I was interested in learning more about medications, and when I heard about this program, I registered immediately,” Ali said.
These instructional programs, which vary in length depending on the specialty, are based on an “earn as you learn” model that equips participants with priority skills and gets them to a level of safe, proficient practice.
Participants continue to hone their skills using an apprentice model, with oversight from their manager and preceptor who help guide them as they continue to build on their proficiency and complete their required competencies.
“It’s exciting to see more and more interest in our programs because that means individuals know they can make a difference when given the right tools,” said Randy Ball, vice president system pharmacy officer.
Ready for the future
Now, as a registered pharmacy technician at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, Ali has also received the ACE Apprenticeship Champion of Excellence Award from Dallas College. She was selected out of 2,500 active apprentices across the Metroplex.
“I enjoyed learning about the role pharmacy technicians play. We help keep the medication supply intact and secure, prepare the surgery rooms, and support doctors and nurses in carrying out their duties,” she added. Ali’s favorite things about working at Texas Health is the community she’s surrounded by, and the fun learning environment.
“Everyone is friendly and always willing to answer my questions. It’s uplifting to have colleagues and supervisors who want to help you succeed,” Ali said.
For those looking to explore Texas Health career pathways, here are some important links to bookmark (For Texas Health employees only):
- Career Pathways
- Academic Partnerships
- Career Pipeline Programs
- Media highlights career pipeline programs
Ali’s advice for anyone curious about how to get started was short and sweet.
“Be eager to learn. Prepare for a detail-oriented work environment. Reach out to people already in the position you want to be in or find a mentor. We are all here to support you!”
