How Ethos is Growing the Next Generation of Veterinary Technicians
July 3, 2025
At Ethos, investing in people is just as important as investing in medicine. One of the most impactful ways our hospitals are doing this is through our Veterinary Education Sponsorship program. This program empowers aspiring veterinary technicians to advance their careers while addressing hospital staffing needs.
A Smarter Path to Credentialing
The program enables hospitals to sponsor team members in a veterinary technician education program, most notably Penn Foster’s online, on-demand, self-paced program, in exchange for a post-graduation work commitment. This flexible sponsorship model removes financial barriers to entry by allowing hospitals to pay tuition directly, eliminating the need for reimbursement or out-of-pocket costs.
While Penn Foster is the most common choice, hospitals and students can agree on any program that meets their mutual needs. The typical agreement includes a two-year work commitment after program completion, with built-in clauses for those who may struggle with certification exams like the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
“We’ve found that giving team members a clear path to becoming credentialed — and removing the financial roadblocks — keeps talent in our hospitals and builds a stronger clinical team,” said Kristin Freitas, RVT, VTS (ECC), Manager of Ethos Clinical Learning & Development.
The Human Impact: Real Stories from the Field
The success of the program can best be told through the voices of those it supports.
Amanda Timmons, who returned to veterinary medicine after a layoff during the pandemic, credits the sponsorship with helping her rediscover and redefine her career path in cardiology at Upstate Vet Emergency + Specialty Care in South Carolina.
“Upstate Vet played a key role by offering to be my sponsor throughout the program. I had never worked for a company so committed to helping its employees grow and succeed. Their support never wavered,” she said.
“I just turned 39 and proudly earned my associate’s degree in veterinary science. Much of this success is due to Ethos’ sponsorship and my family’s unwavering support. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Kristin Hillmon, LVT, now a seasoned technician in neurology and neurosurgery at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists in Houston, praised the opportunities for continued learning and advancement.
“Ethos has supported me by helping me expand my knowledge through experiences and continuing education. I don’t think I can find this kind of support and love anywhere else,” she said. “My best advice to someone thinking about getting their degree is: Do not give up! You’ll be so happy and proud that you did it.”
At Arizona Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Center in Buckeye, Sara Botelli is in the midst of her credentialing journey and has already felt the program’s impact.
“Being in the CVT program at Penn Foster while working in a clinical setting has been a game changer,” Sara said. “Ethos has provided hands-on experience, continued education opportunities, and a clear pathway to credentialing—along with the most supportive environment I could have asked for. This isn’t just a workplace, it’s a place where your personal and professional growth truly matter.
A Win-Win for Hospitals and Team Members
Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey exemplifies how widespread implementation of the sponsorship model can benefit an entire hospital. With 12 active students, two nearing graduation, and one recent graduate, the hospital is strengthening its team while retaining skilled, passionate team members.
Support during the program varies by location, but Support U, a new centralized resource available to all students, offers standardized guidance and opportunities for peer support across the network. Additionally, Ethos hosts a VTNE study group twice a year for those pursuing formal credentialing in their state.
While raises upon licensure are determined at the hospital level, many locations offer increases to reflect new responsibilities and credentials.
Building a Better Future, One Technician at a Time
The Veterinary Education Sponsorship Program reflects a long-term vision: to nurture talent from within, support lifelong learning, and elevate the standard of patient care across all Ethos hospitals.
Whether someone is just beginning their veterinary journey or returning to the field with a renewed passion, this program offers more than financial support — it offers a future.
“You’re laying the groundwork for a lifelong, meaningful career,” Sara said. “Stay curious, stay motivated, ask questions, be honest, and embrace every learning opportunity offered to you.”
And as Amanda reminds us, “It’s never too late to change your career path.”