2019 PTSA Professionalism Award Winner – Don Ridley
Each year, PTSA invites its members to nominate a pharmacy technician for the professionalism award. The award recognizes a commitment to professionalism through excellence in pharmacy practice.
This year’s recipient was nominated by more than one of his peers, which shows the impact he has had, not only on them but on anyone that knows him or works with him. This year’s recipient of the professionalism award is Don Ridley.
Don has had quite the distinguished career since his graduation from the pharmacy technician program at Red Deer College in 1983.
His career began with installing computers in pharmacies around Alberta and in 1985, he played a crucial role in transitioning sterile compounding from pharmacists to technicians.
He transferred to the Royal Alexandra Hospital after that and worked with management to develop the Tech-Check-Tech program. His next role was in purchasing, where he ensured patients received the medications that they needed.
From there, he transitioned into key leadership roles within Alberta Health Services (AHS) such as being part of their Provincial Leadership team and collaborating with AHS stakeholders to develop the “Our People Strategy” for the new North sector Central Production facility.
He has been an active member of the PTSA; having served on the board as President and Vice President. He has also been involved with planning our annual conference on several occasions.
He has been a strong advocate for pharmacy technicians; working collaboratively with the Alberta College of Pharmacy to help shape pharmacy technician involvement in the profession. In addition, he has helped nurture and support other pharmacy technicians in their professional development.
Don has been described by his peers as a mentor, an innovator and a leader. It is not hard to see why. His tireless efforts and lifelong dedication have had a major impact in what we technicians are able to do today and will be able to do in the future. His contributions have not gone unnoticed and should be properly recognized. That’s why the PTSA was proud to present the 2019 Professionalism Award to Mr. Don Ridley.