The landscape of healthcare employment is undergoing a transformation, and pharmacy professionals have a unique opportunity to benefit. As government agencies implement hiring freezes and downsize, the demand for contract workers is typically rises. This trend presents a strategic opportunity for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians looking for stable and rewarding work.

Economic uncertainty often leads government agencies and commercial healthcare organizations to shift from permanent hires to contracted professionals. Pharmacy is no exception. With a greater need for flexible staffing solutions, institutions such as VA hospitals, federally run healthcare centers, and large commercial pharmacies are increasingly turning to pharmacy contractors to fill critical roles.
At the forefront of this evolving workforce dynamic is Ridgemont Resources, a certified government contractor and minority-owned business, actively placing pharmacy contractors in federally run institutions. As these institutions navigate tighter budgets and evolving workforce needs, the role of pharmacy contractors becomes even more essential in ensuring uninterrupted patient care.

Pharmacy professionals who transition into contract roles can enjoy a variety of benefits, including:

• Flexibility – Contract positions allow pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to have greater control over their schedules, choosing assignments that best fit their personal and professional needs.
• Competitive Pay – Contracting often comes with higher hourly wages compared to permanent positions, as organizations rely on skilled professionals for essential but temporary roles.
• Diverse Work Environments – Contractors gain exposure to various settings, from VA hospitals and government-run clinics to large commercial pharmacies, expanding their skills and experience.
• Job Security in an Uncertain Market – While full-time positions may be cut during budget reductions, contractors remain in high demand as institutions seek to maintain staffing levels without committing to long-term hires.
• Networking Opportunities – Working in multiple healthcare settings allows pharmacy professionals to build connections that can lead to future full-time career opportunities.

Of course, Pharmacy contracting isn’t for everyone. Many contractors find that the benefits far outweigh potential disadvantages such as:

• Limited Benefits: Most contract roles may not provide comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans, requiring individuals to manage these aspects independently.
• Short Term Job Security: The temporary nature of contracts can lead to uncertainty, with potential gaps between assignments affecting income stability.
• Career Development: Contractors might receive fewer opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a single organization.
  

A prevalent misconception is that contract pharmacists merely "put pills in a bottle" and lack opportunities to develop new skills. In reality, contract roles can offer exposure to diverse pharmacy practices, enabling pharmacists to expand their expertise and adapt to various healthcare environments.
"Contracting empowers pharmacists with the flexibility to manage their careers on their terms, offering diverse experiences that enrich their professional journey." — Jana Rugg, President of Ridgemont Resources.

Do contract pharmacists receive benefits?  Typically, contract positions offer higher pay rates to offset the absence of traditional benefits like health insurance and paid leave.

Can contracting lead to permanent employment? While some contract roles may transition to permanent positions, this is not guaranteed and depends on the organization's needs and the individual's performance.

Is contracting suitable for new pharmacy graduates?  Contracting can be advantageous for new graduates seeking to gain diverse experience quickly; however, they should weigh the pros and cons, including the lack of job security and benefits.

In summary, pharmacy contracting offers a unique blend of flexibility and diverse experiences, appealing to those who prioritize autonomy and varied professional opportunities. However, it's essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as limited benefits and job security, to make an informed career decision.

Ridgemont Resources is a trusted partner in the pharmacy contracting industry, specializing in placing highly qualified pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in government and commercial healthcare settings. Our extensive contracting ensures that we are often made aware of new opportunities first.

Candidates love Ridgemont Resources because that they are immediately notified of new openings. As a registered candidate, they are quickly connected to hiring professionals with top-tier opportunities in secure and well-established institutions.

As a GSA contract holder, Ridgemont Resources ensures that the pharmacy professionals are quickly matched with the latest job opportunities.

If you're a licensed pharmacist or pharmacy technician looking for flexible, well-paying opportunities in a growing field, now is the time to explore pharmacy contracting. Register with Ridgemont Resources today at www.ridgemontresources.com to stay informed about upcoming contract positions that fit your qualifications and career goals.

With the continued expansion of contract work in government and commercial pharmacy settings, this is the perfect time to take control of your career. Join the growing network of pharmacy professionals who are leveraging contracting opportunities for greater flexibility, financial rewards, and career growth.

Sign up with Ridgemont Resources now and let us connect you with your next great opportunity!

TULSA, OK January. 19, 2025 // Ainsley’s Angels, a national nonprofit dedicated to promoting inclusion through endurance events, has named Jana Rugg, President of Ridgemont Resources, as its Leader of the Quarter in recognition of her unwavering commitment, inspiring leadership, and hands-on involvement in advancing the organization’s mission.

Rugg’s impact over the past quarter has been nothing short of remarkable. In October, she participated in the Tulsa Run, supported an inclusive event at Circle Cinema for The Power of Sports for Amputees, and honored the memory of an Angel Runner. In November, she spearheaded efforts for the Route 66 event, organizing teams, coordinating expo setup, and even working a water stop to support athletes throughout the massive race. She wrapped up December with even more races, all while staying active on leadership calls and social media, ensuring that Ainsley’s Angels’ mission continued to reach and inspire communities.

“Jana’s leadership is truly inspiring,” said Michelle Smith, VP Ambassador Program at Ainsley’s Angels. “She embodies the spirit of inclusion and service that drives our organization forward.”

Rugg, who leads Ridgemont Resources with the same passion and commitment, expressed gratitude for the recognition. Ainsley’s Angels selected Rugg for her exceptional leadership, community impact, and dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Ainsley’s Angels is a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to promoting inclusion through running and endurance events, ensuring that athletes of all abilities can race together. The organization pairs ‘Athlete Riders’—children and adults with special needs—with ‘Angel Runners,’ allowing them to experience the excitement of competition firsthand.
In 2017, Tulsa proudly became home to a chapter of Ainsley’s Angels, thanks to the efforts of founding ambassador Jana Rugg. Since then, the chapter has provided countless opportunities for Athlete Riders and their families to be part of the racing community.
For AJ, a 14-year-old Athlete Rider, nothing beats “going fast, crossing the finish line, and getting my bib and medal—just like my family.” Seventeen-year-old Annie eagerly awaits race days, saying, “I love cheering others on as we go past. I enjoy getting medals and hanging them in my room.” Her mother, Adele, shares that the sense of inclusion and community has been transformative for their entire family.
For more information about Ainsley’s Angels and their mission, visit ainsleysangels.org

We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” But perhaps it’s more accurate to think of it as, “who knows you.” After all, truly meaningful relationships are built on connection and mutual benefit – not simply name recognition. 
Yet, how often do we intentionally invest time into growing and nurturing mutually beneficial professional networks? From my experience, this overlooked skill can be a game-changer for advancing your career, whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned professional. 
But what if networking feels overwhelming or doesn’t come naturally to you? Don’t worry—here are a few tips I wish I’d learned earlier. Use them to grow your network and open new opportunities.

Before we discuss how to build your network, let's focus on why it matters.
Building connections isn't just about who you know—it's about who knows you and is willing to advocate for your success. It’s an investment with long-term career dividends.
The right connections often mean the difference between landing a great opportunity and missing out entirely. Many of my clients focus on honing their clinical skills as a path to advance. Understand that building a strong professional network unlocks opportunities and that maximize the value of your investment in hard skills, such as:

• Staying informed about industry trends and opportunities that can shape your career.
• Developing soft skills that enhance workplace success.
• Establishing your personal brand and standing out in the field.
• Gaining access to career resources and growth opportunities.
• Boosting your confidence in showcasing your value.
• Receiving recommendations and referrals that can capture the attention of employers.
  

One mistake I see many people make is approaching networking with a “what can you do for me?” attitude.
My most successful clients don’t think this way. They approach new connections by considering how they can help that person reach their professional goals. As a result, networking feels painless because they are giving and, in the process, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
Here are a few ways to create connections without ‘networking’:

• Be curious - ask how your peer solved a problem or overcame a challenge.
• Be a resource - offer to be a mentor, or be part of a training team.
• Connect people in your network who might benefit from meeting each other.
• Stay genuine—it’s amazing how far a little authenticity can go.
  

The earlier you start nurturing your network, the better. Don’t wait until you need a job to start creating connections. Start now. Your professional network won’t be built overnight—it requires continual effort.

Networking doesn’t have to feel daunting if you work to place yourself in situations where meaningful interactions happen. Build your professional network through these tried-and-true strategies:

Take small, intentional steps. Your peers today might be hiring managers tomorrow. Make yourself a resource to those around you. Still in school – offer to tutor other students. In the workplace – lead a training team, attend in-person CE sessions, start an afterwork event or organize a volunteer opportunity.

Leverage all your talents. Networking opportunities can arise anywhere, and your workplace may be the most fertile ground. Tying your personal interests to networking can make the experience feel natural and enjoyable. Do you enjoy fitness? Consider starting a walking or jogging group with your colleagues. Or, if reading is your thing, a book club could be the perfect way to connect.  If you create a group, encourage members to invite their professional connections from outside your workplace.
One of my more introverted clients discovered the power of this approach. Her passion for baking led her to bring homemade pastries to work, simply to share her joy with others. Without even realizing it, she was creating connections. Over time, coworkers began stopping by to chat, and she found herself building meaningful relationships across her pharmacy. Even her district manager made it a point to visit on “pastry days,” strengthening an otherwise formal connection into something more personal and productive.
How can you use your unique interests to forge meaningful professional relationships?

Attend in-person professional events regularly. Face-to-face interactions often leave a stronger impression than online exchanges. Events like pharmacy association meetings, CE sessions, and local lunch-and-learns, bring professionals together from various specialties, creating the perfect opportunity to broaden your network. If you’re nervous about introducing yourself, remember that most attendees are there to connect, share ideas, and collaborate too.
Bring your curiosity. Asking questions is the most natural way to connect, and you might leave with valuable insights—and meaningful professional relationships. Feeling overwhelmed? Here are some quick tips to help you approach professional interactions with confidence:

• Come prepared. Research who might be attending, whom you’d like to connect with and what they’re passionate about. Approach those with mutual interests and ask questions. It makes those first interactions much more genuine for you and them.
• Be authentic. Your uniqueness is your strength—embrace it. Avoid pretending to be someone you’re not; people can tell when you’re not being genuine.
  
• Be a great listener. Connecting is more about how well you listen rather than what you say. Take the time to learn about the person you’re speaking with—what they do, what excites them about their field. People remember those who show interest in their story.

Participate in community-based activities. Volunteering or hosting health events at the community level—whether a flu vaccine drive or medication counseling day—can help you meet fellow professionals or even gain exposure to potential mentors. Remember, building a network isn’t just about finding opportunities for yourself—it’s also about adding value for others.

Leverage the power of social media. Social media platforms such as LinkedIn are excellent tools to stay visible in the pharmacy world. Beyond simply “adding connections,” engage with posts from thought leaders or participate in group discussions. Take the time to nurture your connections. Invest a little time each week to review what they’re posting and comment.
Even platforms like Facebook can be helpful for joining pharmacy-related groups where professionals share job updates, industry news, or resources.

Building a professional network as a pharmacist may feel challenging, but it’s one of the most rewarding career investments you can make. Networking allows you to learn fresh ideas, uncover new opportunities, and form meaningful connections as you help each other grow.

Remember, networking is just as much about giving as it is about gaining. Learn how to market who you are, show interest in others, and bring value to the table. Your network is a living, evolving community where you support each other throughout your careers.

If you’re not sure where to start, take small steps. Reach out to one new person this week or attend an upcoming live CE event. The first step may feel intimidating, but once you take it, you’re well on your way to creating connections and building your professional network.