@Mary Berg
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?
Growing up on a dairy farm, I always had an interest in veterinary medicine, but life led me down other paths. After college, I traveled with my military husband for many years before settling in Kansas. There, I applied for a microbiology position (my undergraduate degree) at the University of Kansas, but I had no experience. They offered me a job with a small research company that conducted companion animal dental research. The rest is history! I still work with companies to develop testing for the VOHC, have managed a veterinary practice, currently teach at two distance VT programs, and am now the president of Beyond the Crown Veterinary Education.
What led you to focus on education, leadership, or mentorship within the profession?
I found out that I love teaching. I started teaching while in college and taught CPR for the American Red Cross for many years. It seemed natural to pivot from practice management to teaching full-time. I love watching young technicians grasp a new idea and seeing them get excited about our profession.
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 was very excited to see that I qualified for the Fellow of Veterinary Technician Education. I have been involved in teaching at three veterinary technician programs for over 10 years, and I have taught many technicians in clinical and conference settings and it is nice to be recognized in a professional manner.
What does this recognition mean to you, personally and professionally?
I feel that the FVTE has given my role as an educator credibility. As I stated, it is nice to be recognized and validated by an organization of professional veterinary technician educators.
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?
I love it when I see the light bulbs go off over my students' heads as they realize that dentistry isn't a big, scary topic. One of my favorite topics to teach is dental radiographs. It is very rewarding to hear someone tell me that my method of teaching dental radiographs helped them better understand and take a full series.
What advice would you give to others in the veterinary field — especially those just starting out? "I became an FVTE because…"
Never say "no" to an opportunity, no matter how scary it is. If I had said no to the opportunities I have been given, I would not be where I am today. Push your boundaries and give it a shot!
What do you believe the veterinary community needs more of (or less of) right now? "My hope for the veterinary profession is…"
I believe that one of the biggest needs in veterinary medicine is to better understand the role an educated, credentialed veterinary technician plays in this profession. I hope that someday the veterinary medicine field can provide better medicine and client care by fully utilizing the educated, credentialed veterinary technicians to the full extent of their licenses. States will stop offering credentialing based on experience. We have over 222 Veterinary Technician programs (10 of which are online), so there is no reason not to ensure every credentialed technician is a graduate of an AVMA-accredited program.
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…"
If I could remind every veterinary professional of one thing, it would be that titles matter. Using the correct titles in hospitals helps our clients understand our role and the care we offer their beloved pet. Please be proud of your title and wear name tags in hospitals to identify your role.
#FVTE