This column is brought to you by AAEP Educational Partner CareCredit, a Synchrony Solution.

Ask the Financial Expert

How can mentorship help equine technicians grow their confidence and competence?

By Mariel Hendricks, MVEd, RVTg, FVTE, & Addie Reinhard, DVM, MS

At MentorVet, we know that mentorship can be transformative for early-career veterinary technicians. The burnout and compassion fatigue that come with the stresses of being an equine technician are too often overlooked. But having someone to guide them both professionally and emotionally can make all the difference. The right mentor can offer a blend of skill development, career advancement opportun-ities, and personal support that is essential for their long-term success and well-being.

Enhanced Development
It’s always beneficial to learn from an experienced professional, especially when it comes to taking care of the unique needs of equine clients and patients. When technicians have a mentor they can gain knowledge from, whether by working together on a skill in-clinic or asking a question over the phone, they can grow their skill set more quickly. Taking the opportunity to enhance their abilities leads to higher competence, confidence and efficiency. Which can make equine technicians highly valuable—and valued—team members.

Career Advancement
Mentors can help technicians identify their career goals and provide guidance to enable them to follow their ambitions. For instance, if a technician aspires to attain a Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS) in equine nursing, a mentor can provide advice on the necessary steps and offer support throughout the process. Mentors can also help technicians build a network of advisors, leaders and advocates, which can lead to new learning and job opportunities, collaborations or speaking engagements.

Communication Skills
The ability to communicate confidently and effectively is essential for technicians—whether it’s with a client, a team member or a veterinarian. Mentors can be trusted coaches in this journey. For example, a mentor could help the technician role-play challenging conversations about cost of care and payment, providing a safe space to practice and refine these types of crucial skills.

Emotional Support
We can’t say enough about how important it is to have someone to call at the end of the day who can empathize with our experiences. A support system is essential to healthy growth as a technician. We all need someone who understands the pressures of the job and can offer advice on managing stress. A mentor can be that guide in setting boundaries, gaining emotional intelligence and practicing self-care.

Investing in Technicians Is Investing in Equine Medicine
Technicians are very important to the functionality and sustainability of our practices. Investing in their well-being is investing in the future of the equine veterinary industry. At the end of the day, strong and healthy team members can help lead to a strong and financially healthy practice.

CareCredit is passionate about empowering technicians in their financial, emotional and professional growth. Discover resources to help their job growth in our Equine Care Resource Center. Plus, starting Oct. 1, you can sign up for a new Financial Care Course sponsored by CareCredit. You’ll earn 8 hours of RACE-approved CE upon completion.

CLICK HERE FOR COURSE INFORMATION

Disclaimer: This content is subject to change without notice and is offered for informational use only. Synchrony and its affiliates, including CareCredit, make no representations or warranties regarding the content. You are urged to consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented.