Today we stopped Dr. Amber Hopkins, Regional Medical Director and Anesthesiologist, to learn more about her journey in the vet space. Dr. Hopkins joined the SVP familiy in May 2022 and she supports medical quality, recruiting, mentorship and overall support for the doctor teams in our Colorado hospitals.  I also provide Anesthesia and pain management consultations and training for any SVP hospital teams.

How did you get to where you are now? 
I am a Texas A&M graduate.  I always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian.  I practiced as a veterinary technician for several years prior to taking the leap to vet school.  My last technician job before I went to veterinary school was as an Anesthesia technician at CSU, where I made the choice to follow that path.  I attended Ross University for veterinary school, followed by an internship in Northern California and completion of a Residency in Anesthesia and Analgesia at University of Pennsylvania.  After my residency I moved to Southern California and began the first Anesthesiologist at Veterinary Specialty Hospital, where I practiced and taught for 7 years, while also obtaining my Certification in Acupuncture and Rehabilitation.  I missed Colorado, so when an opportunity arose to take on a Medical Director position for VCAs second largest GP/ER/Specialty practice, I took it.  It was an amazing experience that I enjoyed for four more years.  Looking to make my impact further reaching, I joined SVP 8 months ago as both a Regional Medical Director and Anesthesiologist for the company.  It's been a pleasure to be with the company during this time.

As a woman leader in a predominantly male-led industry, what impact do you hope to leave?
That you can be successful, humble and kind all at once and that you can do anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough and are persistent.  

What are your tips for maintaining your health and well-being as a working professional?
I obtained my yoga teacher certification and practice yoga, meditation and mindfulness on a routine basis.  I also get outside a lot and travel whenever I can.

What is your advice to other women looking to join the veterinary industry in a role similar to yours?  
Never let anyone tell you that you can't, no matter your circumstances, work hard and keep your eye on the prize and you can't go wrong.

Name a woman who has served as an inspiration in your life and why.  
Col. Nicole Malachowski.  She suffered from imposter syndrome, like many of us do, for a long time preventing her from pursuing her dream.  She was eventually inspired to take the leap, to not let her insecurities or the naysayers influence her drive to go for dreams and made history by being the first female pilot selected to fly for the Thunderbirds, despite all the obstacles that faced her.  She was then diagnosed with tick borne illness and for a period of time was unable to walk, talk, read or write.  She is now able to do all of those things and is an inspirational speaker.