The career outlook for vet technicians is positive, meaning it is also becoming more competitive. To achieve a successful career as a vet tech, it is increasingly important to set yourself apart from growing competition. Here are five ways to catch the eye of potential employers and launch a successful vet tech career.
- Graduate from an AVMA-accredited Program
If you haven’t already graduated from a vet tech program, attending one that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association can set you apart from your peers. Visit the AVMA website to find accredited programs in your area.
- Obtain Your Radiology Certification
Whether you attended an AVMA-accredited program or not, obtaining certification in radiology including X-ray, ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can greatly increase your chances of success as a vet technician.
- Continue Education Beyond Minimum Requirements
Most states require you to maintain a minimum number hours of continuing education to renew your certification as a vet technician. Since this is required, if you want to get noticed, obtaining more than the required level of education and training is in your favor.
- Volunteer and Obtain Experience
Many vet clinics hire volunteers to help in the kennel or to walk dogs. You can also volunteer at your local animal shelter. Volunteering shows you are passionate about your work and that it means more than just a paycheck to you. Before becoming a vet technician, you should also consider working as a vet assistant, which will help you gain valuable experience to put on your resume.
- Choose a Specialization
You can specialize in specific areas such as lab work, dental work, and surgical prep. Having specialized training makes you more valuable to employers and can help you secure higher paying work as a vet technician.
Demand for qualified vet technicians will continue to increase. Those who go above and beyond the minimum certification requirements and gain special knowledge, skills, and training will be the ones who are chosen for the highest paying positions and who experience the most successful careers.
