Pain, The Experience of a Lifetime?

Initially starting college to become a Registered Nurse (RN), Stephen realized he did not enjoy working with humans as patients. Instead, he became a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). He then obtained certification as a Surgical Research Anesthetist (SRA) through the Academy of Surgical Research. Stephen continued to pursue additional credentials by attaining the Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) designation through the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science, and is one of a handful of Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioners (CVPP) in the country through the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management. He received the Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) credential in Laboratory Animal Medicine (LAM) in research anesthesia from the Academy of Laboratory Animal Veterinary Technicians and Nurses, where he also serves as the Executive Director. He is employed by Howard Hughes Medical Institute at Stanford University School of Medicine in the Department of Neurobiology. In addition to conducting research, Stephen is an award-winning international lecturer on anesthesia, pain management, cannabis, and best research practices. He is on the DVM360 Editorial Advisory Board, has contributed to numerous textbooks/articles, and was also a column coordinator for one of Nature's journals. Stephen serves on multiple boards, is a key opinion leader for pharmaceutical/device companies, COO for the Veterinary Anesthesia Nerds, and Veterinary Cannabinoid Academy. He believes strongly in promoting diversity and veterinary technician elevation within the industry.