What is your role at Empower? In your own words, what do you do?
Senior Developer. I lead development efforts to improve our technology stack, working on migrating legacy applications towards a more scalable microservices architecture.
I collaborate with cross-functional teams—Salesforce, Data, and Development—to create solutions that streamline operations, enhance the customer experience, and maintain compliance. My work involves hands-on coding, managing DevOps for the Data Team, designing AWS-based architecture, and exploring ways to leverage AI to support our business goals. This role lets me contribute both as a developer and as a strategic partner in shaping Empower’s technical direction.
What was your career path like before joining the team, and what made you want to join Empower?
Before joining Empower, I worked in the insurance industry as part of a third-party administrator (TPA), where I focused on optimizing processes and ensuring data accuracy and compliance.
My work in TPA exposed me to the complexities of managing systems in highly regulated environments, and I developed a strong interest in leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance service quality. When I saw an opportunity to join a rapidly growing pharmacy like Empower, I was excited to jump in. Empower’s commitment to innovation in healthcare resonated with me, and I saw a chance to apply my skills in a sector where precision and compliance are crucial.
I was drawn to the challenge of helping modernize legacy systems and integrate new technologies to support Empower’s growth.
It was a perfect alignment with my career goals, allowing me to make a meaningful impact in healthcare while continuing to grow in application architecture and development.
What’s something about your job that most people wouldn’t expect?
Most people wouldn’t expect the amount of detective work involved.
A big part of my role is diving deep into complex systems—sometimes with limited documentation—figuring out how legacy applications interact, and troubleshooting unexpected issues. It’s often like piecing together a puzzle, especially when working with legacy systems where past configurations aren’t always clear. I’m constantly balancing new technology with the nuances of existing systems to ensure everything works seamlessly.
It’s more investigative than people might think, and solving these challenges can be surprisingly rewarding.
What’s the most impactful thing you’ve learned in your time with Empower?
The most impactful lesson I’ve learned at Empower is that people are more important than products.
While technology and processes drive our work, it’s the people behind them who bring real value to the organization. Success isn’t just about building efficient systems or innovative products; it’s about understanding the needs, strengths, and insights of the people who use and support those systems every day. This perspective has not only shaped how I approach development and architecture but also reinforced the importance of collaboration, communication, and valuing diverse expertise.
What is your favorite part about working at Empower Pharmacy?
My favorite part about working at Empower Pharmacy is the constant change and the challenges that come with it.
There’s always something new to tackle, whether it’s solving a complex technical problem, improving a process, or implementing an innovative solution. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the direct impact of my work—like with the Bulk Portal—being used every day to streamline operations and enhance the experience for our team and customers.
That sense of ownership and knowing my work contributes to real-world results keeps me motivated and engaged.
What does patient care mean to you, and how do you contribute to that mission?
To me, patient care means ensuring that every process and system we build ultimately supports the health, safety, and experience of the patients who rely on us.
Although I’m not directly involved in patient interactions, my work behind the scenes—whether it’s enhancing the Bulk Portal, optimizing data flows, or integrating systems—plays a role in making sure that pharmacists, clinicians, and the Empower team have reliable, efficient tools to serve patients. By streamlining operations, improving data accuracy, and supporting compliance, I help create a foundation where patient care can thrive.
It’s about enabling the front-line team to focus more on patient needs, knowing they have the technology and systems they can count on.
What is a proud moment or achievement you’ve had at Empower that has stayed with you?
One of my proudest moments at Empower was seeing the successful launch and impact of the Bulk Portal.
This project was a huge effort, requiring cross-functional collaboration, technical problem-solving, and meticulous attention to regulatory requirements. Knowing that this tool is now a critical part of our operations—and that it makes a real difference for our team and clients—gives me a great sense of accomplishment. It’s stayed with me because it embodies everything I love about my work: the challenge of building something from the ground up, the opportunity to work with talented colleagues, and the rewarding feeling of seeing a project come to life and make an impact every day
What are you looking forward to in your future at Empower Pharmacy?
I’m looking forward to seeing how Empower’s growth and the integration of new technologies will continue to improve and even transform people’s lives—especially for our customers.
As we adopt more innovative solutions and scale our systems, there’s an exciting opportunity to enhance the customer experience, making processes smoother, faster, and more reliable. I’m excited to contribute to projects that put customers at the center, ensuring they get the quality and efficiency they deserve. Watching how technology can directly impact patient care and customer satisfaction is incredibly motivating, and I can’t wait to see where we can take it next.
