The week of October 12th is the annual celebration of veterinary technicians known as “National Veterinary Technician Week.” This year’s theme—“Paths to Success: Shining a Light on Credentialed Veterinary Technician Stars”—recognizes the many routes to professional growth within this vital career. Today’s blogpost will highlight the pathways beyond providing nursing care available for technician success at AMC.
The Backbone of Veterinary Care
The term credentialed veterinary technician (CrVT) encompasses several titles used across the United States to identify veterinary technicians. In New York, CrVTs are known as Licensed Veterinary Technicians, or LVTs, while other states use Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), Licensed Veterinary Medical Technician (LVMT), or Veterinary Technologist. Though the titles differ based on state regulations, they all refer to the same essential role—highly skilled professionals trained to provide expert nursing care and technical support, working as the veterinarian’s right hand.
The Advanced Clinical Technician Role at AMC
At the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center, we value the contributions of our experienced LVTs. For those with more than ten years of experience, we’ve created an Advanced Clinical Technician (ACT) role, recognizing their leadership, specialized skills, and mentorship. The ACT is a leader in team building, exemplifies AMC’s core values, and actively participates in quality assurance programs.
Leading Veterinary Technicians
AMC’s team of 140+ LVTs is led by our Chief Veterinary Technician (CVT), who represents the LVT workforce on our executive leadership team and provides strategic oversight and direction. Under the CVT, there are Clinical Directors overseeing the LVTs in our clinical groups. For example, the Clinical Director for my service, the Oncology Service, manages the Dermatology, Rehabilitation, CT Scan, and MRI teams—all located on the eighth floor—ensuring coordination and superior care across all areas.
Training the Next Generation of Veterinary Technicians
Like all medical professionals, LVTs need to continually hone their skills. AMC’s Clinical Educators are dedicated to supporting this growth. They develop training programs for LVTs across specialties, onboard new LVT hires, and oversee AMC’s Veterinary Technician Intern (VTI) Program. VTIs are fully credentialed LVTs who come to AMC for advanced training. Additionally, AMC hosts Veterinary Technician Externs who visit AMC during their LVT training to gain clinical experience. Through mentorship and ongoing education, Clinical Educators ensure all AMC technicians have the skills they need for success.
Pathway from Veterinary Assistant to Technician
AMC recently developed a pathway to support veterinary assistants who want to become Licensed Veterinary Technicians. Assistants who have worked at AMC for at least one year can enroll in an AVMA-accredited veterinary technician program and receive a paid day a week to attend classes. Graduates must honor a 2-year commitment to work at AMC once they receive their LVT credentials. Participants in this program may also qualify for tuition reimbursement. This program reflects our belief in nurturing internal talent and helping every team member reach their full potential.
Learn More
If you’re inspired to follow one of these pathways to success as a LVT at AMC, explore what it means to grows as an LVT at AMC.