Heather Prendergast, RVT, CVPM, SPHR – NAVTA Director
Number of years as a Credentialed Veterinary Technician: 23
Why/how did you decide to become a Credentialed Veterinary Technician?
I wanted to be a veterinarian, but getting into veterinary school then was incredibly tough. After being denied the first time and accepted as an alternate the 2nd time (but no seats opened), I pursued my associates in veterinary technology. Everything happens for a reason; I would not have the career I have today if the original goal had panned out!
Why did you volunteer to serve on the NAVTA Board of Directors?
To be able to continue serving the very profession I started in and to continue advancing the abilities of the entire veterinary team to serve our patients better.
What do you feel is your greatest professional/personal accomplishment to date?
Being voted to the WVC Board of Directors and serving as the first Veterinary Technician President during the 2024-2025 year.
How do you balance your work/volunteer/home commitments?
Balance is difficult; I won’t lie. I love everything about what I do in work and volunteer commitments. I love coaching and growing people and practices, giving back to organizations that built me and working long hours during the week. But my early mornings are reserved for the gym, and late evenings and weekends are reserved for personal time. So the times are blocked, with special consideration when we have a veterinary conference to attend!
If I could pick up a new skill in an instant, what would it be?
Cooking. Actually, I can cook, but I want to be a chef and be able to cook amazing meals!