Ever wondered what else you can do with your veterinary technician credentials? Whether you're feeling burned out, ready for a new challenge, or simply curious about your options, there's a whole world of opportunities beyond the exam room! Dr. Andy Roark is joined by four registered veterinary technicians from Hill's Pet Nutrition: Anna Springer, RVT, Jennifer Katchadourian, RVT, Erin Richmond, BS, RVT, and Misty Tobyne, RVT. Together, they share how they navigated career changes into research, education, sales, and regulatory affairs, along with the skills, mentors, and mindsets that helped them along the way. If you've ever wondered whether you can grow your career without leaving veterinary medicine behind, this episode is for you! This episode is brought to you by Hill's Pet Nutrition! Misty Tobyne, RVT, serves as the PVA Coordinator at Hill's Pet Nutrition. With 23 years of dedication to the organization, Misty brings a deep passion for research and education, and is instrumental in keeping the Professional Veterinary Affairs department running smoothly. Outside of work, you can find Misty with her husband supporting their two daughters on the softball and soccer fields. She enjoys spending time at home in Kansas with their three beagles, a blue heeler/corgi mix, and two cats. I am a Regulatory Affairs Specialist on the packaging compliance team. Graduate at Colorado State University Global with a Bachelors Degree in Business Management with a Specialization in Marketing. Has completed an Associates Degree in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology from Brown Mackie College (February, 2014) and is a Registered Veterinarian Technician in the state of Kansas (April, 2014). Certifications include Veterinary Nutrition (October, 2022), plus Professional Dog and Cat Grooming from Nash Academy of Animal Arts (April, 2012). Has worked in the pet care industry for 15 years including 12 years in settings that included research. Has worked at the Hills’ Pet Nutrition Center for 9 years. Anna Springer is a Registered Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Consultation Service Technician and AI Training Specialist with 16+ years of experience in clinical practice and the veterinary industry. Passionate about small animal nutrition and weight management, she partners with veterinary teams at Hill’s Pet Nutrition to resolve complex nutritional and product-related inquiries and support effective weight control plans. Previously, Anna spent over a decade at Claycomo Animal Hospital in Kansas City, MO, where she managed high-volume caseloads, educated clients on preventive care and nutrition, and improved documentation and workflow standards. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and an Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology. She is also an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Committee on Advancing Veterinary Technicians and Technologists, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America, and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarship Review Committee.
