Employee Spotlight: Katie Veal
Pharmacy Technician | Mac’s Pharmacy – City Drug
Meet Katie Veal, one of the newest Pharmacy Technicians at City Drug in Maryville. Katie brings a fresh, fun energy to the team—along with a whole lot of heart and hustle. Whether she’s answering phones, helping patients, or staying on top of prescriptions, Katie does it all with a smile… and usually a good story or two to go with it.
How did you get started in pharmacy?
I actually started out working at CVS and didn’t really know what I wanted to do long-term. Then one day, I was scrolling through Facebook and saw that City Drug was hiring. I applied, came in for an interview, and got the job—and I’ve been here ever since! I started in February, and it already feels like home.
Hometown + Family Life
I’m a Maryville girl, born and raised. I’ve got three older sisters—Mandy (45), Leah (41), and Blair (31)—so yes, I’m the baby of the family. My mom, Tami, works as a correctional officer for Blount County, and my dad used to be an officer too, but now works in pest control. We’re a close family, and they’ve always had my back 100%.Being homeschooled through Penn Foster, let me learn in a way that fit me-and it helped me to stay open to different paths. Pharmacy wasn’t something I planned—it kind of found me—but I am so glad it did.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
No two days are the same—that’s what I love most. One day it’s all refills and phone calls, and the next… someone walks in with a fox! Yes—a patient who breeds them brought one in to help it get used to people before placing it in a new home. Just one of the many wild surprises at City Drug! What I really love, though, is working in a place where you feel like part of the community. You’re not just filling scripts—you’re helping real people every day. That’s what keeps it exciting.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
When I’m not at work, I’m usually spending time with my family. My dad and I do fishing tournaments together—it’s something we’ve always loved doing. I’m also a total concert junkie. I recently went to the Rock the Country concert with Kid Rock, and it was amazing. I’m really into anything outdoors—I go bird and pheasant hunting with my brother-in-law, and I’ve recently gotten into photography. I just got my first real camera, and I’m just starting to learn how to use it. It’s totally different from pharmacy, but it gives me a chance to be creative.I also attend Rio Church and Calvary, and I have a 9-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named Sadie.
If you could recommend one product from our pharmacy, what would it be and why?
Essential oils—they’re pure, plant-based extracts that can boost your mood, help you relax, and even improve focus. For anyone who is juggling school, work, or just life, using essential oils is an easy way to reduce stress, sleep better, or feel more energized. Lavender can chill you out after a long day, peppermint can help with headaches or mental fog, and citrus oils like orange or lemon give you a quick mood boost when you’re feeling blah. No chemicals, no drama—just good vibes in a bottle.
At just 19, Katie is already making her mark at Mac’s Pharmacy—not just because of her strong work ethic and sharp skills, but because of her upbeat attitude, sense of humor, and genuine care for the people around her.
We’re so proud to have you on the team, Katie, and we can’t wait to see all that’s ahead for you!
