Company: Toronto Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology (TIPT)

Position: manager, general operations and laboratory

Employed: seven years

Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?
I graduated from the University of Toronto in 1996 and from TIPT in 1997. My program was a four year B.Sc. in physiology from UofT and post-graduate diploma in pharmaceutical research and development from TIPT.

What drew you to your current field?
I always aspired to work in a scientific discipline where I would have the opportunity to become an 'expert'. I just didn't know it was going to be in pharmaceuticals.

How did you find your current position?
I attended the post-graduate diploma program in pharmaceutical research and development at TIPT and continued in the internship program, which then led me to a full time position as a research and development associate.

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.
My role at TIPT is very hands-on, involving a number of areas. I'm responsible for the daily operations of the Institute including supervising staff; I ensure that policies and practices of all departments in TIPT are mutually supportive the Institute's goals; and I manage all aspects of the student pilot manufacturing plant and laboratory operations.

How do you feel your job makes a difference?
My job makes a difference to my students because I impart on them the skills they need to succeed in the pharmaceutical industry. When employers call to express their content in my students I feel a sense of accomplishment.

What skills have you learned through your work experience?
I have acquired valuable skills related to the development of pharmaceutical dosage forms, project management skills, presentation skills, and how to manage people that come from a broad spectrum of academic backgrounds.

Is there one accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
The accomplishment that I am most proud of is continuously working on developing members of my team, by giving them constructive feedback as well as opportunities they require to develop and achieve their career aspirations.

What are your future career aspirations?
My future aspirations are to continue on my quest to become an expert in the discipline that I am currently working in and to lead TIPT into the global market.

What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?
Students should go through a self-assessment to ensure they have the practical skills to compliment their education and the ability to problem solve. If they fall short in these areas, then they should draft a plan on how they will acquire these assets. jp
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