In this inspiring episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos, a nationally certified pharmacy technician whose career is a masterclass in professional growth and self-advocacy. Originally trained as a nurse in the Philippines, “Ella” shares her remarkable journey of transitioning to the U.S. pharmacy landscape, moving from high-volume retail to a specialized role in outpatient infusion and specialty pharmacy. Her dedication to clinical excellence recently earned her a nomination as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy, where she ranked in the top 45—a powerful testament to the impact a technician can have on the entire profession.

Listeners will hear about:

• The Global Transition: Ella’s journey from nursing in the Philippines and working as a rehab aid in Hawaii to finding a new level of “fulfillment” in the U.S. pharmacy field.
• The Power of Negotiation: A candid look at how Ella successfully negotiated a higher starting salary at a major retail chain by confidently articulating her clinical value.
• Moving into Specialty Pharmacy: The shift from the “craziness” of retail during the pandemic to the technical and clinical demands of outpatient infusion therapy.
• The “Lifelong Student” Mindset: Why staying ahead of medical literature and constantly studying is the best way to ensure you never feel “stuck” in your career.
• Stepping Into the Spotlight: The story behind her influential leader nomination and why technicians must learn to be their own biggest advocates.

Whether you are navigating a career change or looking to level up your clinical expertise, Ella’s story provides a roadmap for turning technical skills into professional influence. This episode also features an exciting announcement regarding the launch of the NPTA Pharmacy Technician I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards, a new international program designed to spotlight the measurable contributions of technicians worldwide.
Key Takeaway: “Study, study, study. Don’t feel stuck. Find the right people to ask questions and always be your own advocate.”
Resources from this episode:

• Connect with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos: LinkedIn Profile
• Nominate for the I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards: cpht.org/awards
• Learn more about NPTA: cpht.org