Employee Spotlight: Fred Fekete, Pharmacist
1. How long have you worked for Mac’s Hometown Pharmacies? I have been a pharmacist for 45 years and have worked at City Drug and Lowe’s Drug for 31 years.
2. What inspired you to work in the pharmacy field, and what do you enjoy most about your role? My father was a pharmacist so my journey into the pharmacy field began in childhood. What excites me most about my role today is the opportunity to blend science with compassion. I love being a part of a patients health journey. Each day presents a new opportunity to make a difference. Patients turn into friends —that I get to see at least once a month.
3. What is one piece of advice you would give someone considering a career in pharmacy? If you’re considering a career in pharmacy, my advice would be to think about what aspect of the profession excites you most. While small independent drugstores are becoming rarer, it’s important to reflect on whether you want to build meaningful relationships with patients or if you prefer the more transactional nature of larger chain pharmacies. Each path has its own rewards, so choose the one that aligns with your passion for helping others!
4. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? What are your hobbies or interests? I come from a big sports family, and athletics play a huge role in our lives! I spent five years coaching basketball and an incredible 25 years coaching travel softball. My oldest daughter played softball at the University of Tennessee and is now the Assistant Principal at Alcoa High, while my other daughter, Lisa, played at Tennessee Wesleyan and is a Nurse Practitioner/Nurse Manager at University of Tennessee Family Practice Center at UT Hospital. I have two granddaughters. My oldest granddaughter plays basketball and softball at Alcoa High School and has committed to play softball at the University of Tennessee. My other granddaughter is a cheerleader for Alcoa Middle School. Plus, I have two grandsons who are busy playing baseball, basketball, football and golf at Alcoa Intermediate.
5. If you could recommend one product from our pharmacy that you believe everyone should try, what would it be and why? I would highly recommend a good Multivitamin. In today’s fast-paced world, our eating habits have evolved significantly, making it challenging for families to receive all the essential nutrients they need. Centrum vitamins can help fill any nutritional gaps in our diets, enhance energy levels, boost immunity, and promote healthy growth and development for all ages.
