FVTE Spotlight: Dennis Lopez
To to be named a "Fellow of the Association (or Academy)" follows a long tradition of professional (especially medical) associations recognizing the whole work of individual's career, not just a single test or program. Tara Groves is the current chair of the AVTE Fellows committee so reach out if you have any questions and learn more about the AVTE Fellows program.
Get to know AVTE legend @Dennis Lopez
What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine? How did your path evolve — and what experiences or challenges shaped who you are today?
I did not start out in veterinary medicine. After obtaining my BA degree in writing, I spent the first 18 years of my working career in the retail book business managing bookstores and then becoming a District Manager for Waldenbooks. However, I tired of the traveling for work and I decided to pursue my second passion working with animals. I had always been a dog cat owner and wanted to help animals. I returned to college and obtained an Associate's in Veterinary Technology, became a licensed VT, and began working for a hospital in Las Vegas. My new wife had always been a cat owner and I began to appreciate the intricacies of feline nursing. I worked for several years until I realized my age would get in the way of 10 hour shifts lifting 100 lb. dogs.
What led you to focus on education, leadership, or mentorship within the profession?
With degrees in my background, I was approached by a technical college, Pima Medical Institute, to teach part-time in their Veterinary Assistant program. However, when I was given the curriculum, I noticed there were skills to teach that were outside the scope for a VA in the State of Nevada. I met with the educational leadership of the college and suggested they start a Credentialed Veterinary Technician program and get the program accredited with the CVTEA. I was tasked with writing the curriculum and designing the program and started the first VT program for the college system. We obtained CVTEA accreditation and I spent the next 20 years of my career providing direction to over 600 graduates. To further my educational background, I obtained a Master's of Education in 2008. I retired from FT work in 2023; however, I maintain active roles in NAVTA and as Chair of the Approved Veterinary Assistant committee.
What motivated you to become a Fellow of Veterinary Technician Education (FVTE)? How has being part of the FVTE community allowed you to make a difference?
I have been a member of the AVTE for several decades and attended multiple conferences. When I saw the opportunity to join the rands of Fellowship, I applied to help increase the recognition of the AVTE organization and to highlight the importance of proper education of Credentialed Veterinary Nurses. It is vital for the long-term success of the Veterinary Technology profession that education in the field grow in respectability.
What does this recognition mean to you, personally and professionally?
As a long-time educator and Credentialed Veterinary Technician, I fully understand the role in professional education of the position. Human Nursing is recognized for its level of professionalism and has required education for the profession for many decades. To increase the recognition of Credentialed VTs as an equivalent profession, proper education and proper definition by State Veterinary Boards is vital to continued respect. The FVTE is another step in recognizing the importance of Veterinary Technician education; to show value in long-term dedicated instructors and program managers. All of these steps will continue to highlight this important career.
What part of your work brings you the most joy or fulfillment? Is there a project, initiative, or teaching moment you’re especially proud of?
When I taught, nothing gave me greater satisfaction than seeing the "light-bulb" go on in a student's mind when they get it and grow in their learning. That is why I pursued methods of instruction to increase student engagement and college success. It is so important for college students to recognize the importance of their chosen field and to pursue a higher level of professionalism. Students don't have to be at the top of their class to be successful, but when they become dedicated learners to better themselves for their own growth and for the health of their patients, that is the ultimate in achievement.
What advice would you give to others in the veterinary field — especially those just starting out?
“I became an FVTE because…”
Stay with it--you will occasionally struggle in your education and in your work, but keep at it and congratulate yourself when you have academic and professional success. Watch what others do to be successful and don't be afraid to ask questions of your instructors and your supervisors in your work. And of course, don't beat yourself up when you make a mistake--learn from your errors and strive to improve.
What do you believe the veterinary community needs more of (or less of) right now?
“My hope for the veterinary profession is…”
It is vitally important for the profession of Veterinary Nursing to be recognized and accepted as a profession with high standards for education and training. We need consistency in recognition of the profession with standards for Credentialing and Licensing from every state. This will elevate the profession to the ranks of the Nursing profession.
If you could share one message with the profession, what would it be?
“If I could remind every veterinary professional of one thing, it would be…”
Your job as a Credentialed Veterinary Technician is critical to the Veterinary Health Care team and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
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