A group photo of people presenting on stage at the Annual Pharmacy Technology Day
A teacher in a lab coat showing a student something in a test-tube
Students walking the Campus Walkway checking out different booths

On October 15, 2024, San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) welcomed over 700 high school students from San Bernardino City Unified School District and Colton Joint Unified School District to its 3rd Annual Pharmacy Technology Day. The event provided students with a firsthand look at SBVC’s Pharmacy Technology Training Pathway, a program that enables motivated high school students to earn college credits outside regular school hours. This unique pathway supports students aiming for pharmacy technician licensure and gives them a head start on a career in healthcare.

Students had the chance to connect with faculty and staff from SBVC and Loma Linda University’s School of Pharmacy. Engaging hands-on demonstrations led by instructors introduced students to STEM concepts within pharmacy, creating an interactive learning experience that combined practical skills with scientific applications.

The highlight of the event was a guest speaker panel with staff from Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy. The speakers shared their personal insights into the profession and the vital role that an early college education played in providing benefit to students pursuing a pharmacy technology career. They also offered guidance for overcoming academic challenges as well as navigating the application process. Inspiring messages from Superintendent Arellano of San Bernardino City Unified School District and Mr. Fuentes, Colton Joint Unified School District Board Member, bolstered the message of encouragement for the student attendees.

Doris Ontiveros, Chair of the Pharmacy Technology Program, emphasized the importance of connecting students with core resources and employment opportunities. “It’s essential to provide core resources and employment opportunities,” she said. Over 30 local vendors were present, engaging with students about externships and career options within the pharmacy field at the Greek Theatre and along the Lois Carson Campus Center walkway.

Pharmacy Technology Day continues to be a valuable event for SBVC and local high schools, bridging the gap between high school education and career readiness in healthcare.