Oregon Veterinary Technician & Assistant Association Celebrates 20 Years
Chantal Faraudo, CVT, CVPP
OVMA Board Director- Continuing Education
In June 2025, the Oregon Veterinary Technician and Assistant Association (OVTAA) proudly marks its 20th anniversary, a testament to two decades of dedication to advancing the veterinary technology profession and fostering exceptional animal care across the state. Founded in 2005, the first state association representing veterinary technicians and assistants, the OVTAA has grown into a vital force, representing veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers and support staff, who are the backbone of Oregon’s veterinary community. I vividly remember sitting down with Nicole Papageorgiou,CVT, Dolores Galindo,CVT and Tiah Schwartz,CVT in 2005 as a second year Veterinary Technology student at PCC doing clinical rotations at Laurelhurst Veterinary Hospital, and helping create the OVTAA and its name.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Education
The OVTAA was established with a clear mission: to promote the roles of veterinary technicians and assistants, advocate for professional recognition, and elevate standards of care. Over the past 20 years, this non-profit, volunteer-led organization has empowered its members through high-quality continuing education, networking opportunities, and access to the PVMA Affinity program. By providing resources and a collective voice, the OVTAA has championed the profession, ensuring veterinary support staff are valued for their critical contributions.
Since partnering with the PVMA in 2019 (not sure if this is the right year) the Portland Veterinary Medical Association has provided administrative support to OVTAA, merging its Veterinary Team Affiliate (VTA) program with OVTAA membership to create shared benefits. This has expanded access to continuing education, over 40 CE credits annually, networking opportunities, wellness programs like monthly Wellness Days, and resources such as the PVMA’s affinity program and career center. The collaboration has also led to initiatives like the V.I.T.A.L. program for practice managers and events like the Rose City Veterinary Conference, enhancing professional growth and community connection. This partnership reflects a commitment to elevating the entire veterinary team, ensuring sustainability for OVTAA, and promoting high standards of care.
Oregon’s veterinary technicians, certified through rigorous training and licensure by the Veterinary Technician National Exam, perform essential tasks from surgical assistance and anesthesia to diagnostic testing. Veterinary assistants, while not requiring certification, play equally vital roles in animal care and clinic operations. Practice managers and client services representatives are the front lines of driving efficiency, client satisfaction, patient care and enabling the medical staff to focus on quality care while ensuring practice stability and patient outcomes.
CVT’s invest thousands of hours and dollars in their education, graduating from a veterinary technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Oregon has two AVMA-accredited programs: Portland Community College and Central Oregon Community College, both offering an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. THEN, they must pass the VTNE administered by the AAVSB, American Association of Veterinary State Boards with a score of 425 or higher. THEN, they must complete the Oregon Jurisprudence Exam/Regional Disease Test, that covers Oregon’s Veterinary Practice Act and diseases. And finally, they must apply to the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board (OVMEB) with proof of education and exam scores, and an application fee. To maintain their certification, they must renew your CVT license every two years, completing 15 hours of continuing education, including scientific workshops, and journal reading. And in addition, if you have earned certifications as a Veterinary Technician Specialist or any number of advanced certifications the requirements to maintain your certificates are increased.
The OVTAA welcomes all non-veterinarian team members—technicians, assistants, managers, receptionists, and kennel staff—fostering inclusivity and professional growth.
Milestones and Impact
Since its creation, the OVTAA has been a catalyst for change. It has supported Oregon’s veterinary community by addressing challenges like increasing demand for care and evolving responsibilities for technicians and assistants. The association’s efforts have aligned with the state’s projected 23.1% growth in veterinary technician jobs through 2029, reflecting the profession’s rising importance.
The OVTAA’s commitment to education is evident in its CE programs, which help certified veterinary technicians meet the OVMEB’s requirement of 15 hours every two years. These opportunities ensure members stay current with advancements in animal health, from radiology, RECOVER CPR to anesthesia. Additionally, the OVTAA offers free membership to veterinary technician students in Oregon nurturing and supporting the next generation of professionals.
A Call to Celebrate
Oregon’s veterinary community and pet owners honors its irreplaceable contributions of veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers and client services representatives. From small animal clinics to wildlife rehabilitation, these professionals demonstrate compassion and expertise daily.
Looking ahead, the OVTAA remains committed to protecting and promoting the veterinary technology profession. Its 20-year journey reflects the power of community, education, and advocacy. Join us in celebrating this milestone and recognizing the unsung heroes who ensure Oregon’s animals receive world-class care. Our next goal is achieving title protection of the veterinary technician title.
