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Story contact: Rachel Becker, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photos by Karen Clifford, courtesy Mary McFillen
On Oct. 11, Mizzou’s Veterinary Health Center opened its doors to technicians and professionals from across the state for the fifth annual Veterinary Technician Continuing Education Event. From hands-on workshops to expert-led talks, the day gave participants a chance to gain new insights, practice new skills and connect with the larger veterinary community. 100 technicians attended this year’s event — a reflection of both the demand for continuing education and the trust placed in Mizzou’s expertise.
“You’re never going to reach a point where you know it all,” said event coordinator and veterinary technician Mary McFillen. “There’s always new science and new cases, and it’s important to stay on top of those things. Mizzou and the Veterinary Health Center have the expertise to lead in this space, and while we don’t have to, we believe it’s part of our responsibility to advance the profession.”
Collaboration behind the scenes
The event thrives on the dedication of a small but mighty committee. Each member plays a vital part, overseeing finances, securing sponsorships, coordinating speakers and managing day-of logistics. Their collaboration ensures every detail falls into place.
Planning begins almost as soon as the previous year’s event ends, with sponsorship outreach and speaker coordination ramping up in the springtime.
“If we didn’t have a team, we wouldn’t have these events,” said event coordinator and senior registered veterinary technician Danielle Hurd. “Every person’s role matters, and it all comes together because of teamwork.”
Sessions covered a wide range of subjects including cardiology, dermatology, anesthesia and more, giving presenters the chance to share what they know best. And, with dedicated learning tracks in large animal and small animal, participants could tailor their experience to the topics that best match their interests and expertise.
For technicians in rural communities, the event provides something especially meaningful: access. By bringing continuing education closer to home, the program strengthens skills, supports rural practices and ultimately enhances the care patients receive.
“It’s encouraging to see so many technicians from rural areas making the trip,” Hurd said. “They’re the backbone of their local clinics and communities, and being able to support them through continuing education feels incredibly rewarding. When they grow their skills, the whole community benefits.”
Celebrating the role of technicians
For McFillen and Hurd, continuing education is more than a professional requirement; it reflects Mizzou’s mission to educate, inspire and uplift the veterinary community. Each year’s event builds both knowledge and connection, giving technicians a space to learn from experts, exchange ideas and recharge among peers who share their passion for animal care.
“Education is at the heart of what we do, but our goal goes beyond that,” said McFillen. “We want techs to share their expertise, step forward as leaders and build the confidence to teach others. That’s how the profession and the community grow.”
The event underscores how vital technicians are to veterinary medicine, fostering confidence, collaboration and continual growth within the profession.
“We’re not only preparing students for the profession; we’re ensuring practicing technicians have the same opportunities to grow,” McFillen said. “That ongoing learning is what keeps veterinary medicine moving forward.”
As the state’s only College of Veterinary Medicine, Mizzou continues to shape the profession — not only through education, but through a commitment to lifelong learning and community impact.