WVC Vegas 2026 Education  - Chaos, Coordinated: Practice Management Track

When I assumed the role of practice manager, I thought my first-hand knowledge of how a clinic works—plus a few online courses—would make things easier.

I envisioned my employees simultaneously looking up to me and seeing me as a part of the team. I saw a workflow based on how things really run, an abundant stream—no, a river!—of revenue, and clients who would reflect the positive energy of our practice culture through long-lasting, ever-strengthening relationships—and the occasional free lunch.

Cute, right?

From vision to mirage

Soon, the cracks started to show. After a lengthy search, a dozen no-shows, and one candidate who requested a nap pod, I hired two newly graduated veterinarians. The eager, ambitious one left within six weeks. The other is still here—but doesn’t seem to know that I am. My team is straining under the uneven workload, morale is slipping, and visits are declining. When I turn to the budget—hoping to find a solution I can buy—I only see red.

The only things rising? Costs. And my blood pressure.

Chaos, coordinated: Strategic changes lead to success

There may not be a blueprint to certain success, but there are tools and systems to help you design your own. Mine started with restructuring our hiring process, defining what we wanted, and cultivating a team instead of merely filling roles. Instead of relying on hope to keep that team together, we built a magnetic, healthy culture that aligned with our values and vibe.

I learned to view our budget as a tool for opportunity—not limitation—showing us not just how to cut costs but to understand where our money went and why.

I stopped managing and started leading. This shift changed my role from “fixer” to “planner,” and my strategic decisions helped us avoid calamity altogether. Simple things like team check-ins, clarified job duties, collaboration, and better communication helped diffuse tension and create unity. My employees started to seek my input, instead of avoiding my presence.

If that weren’t enough, the learning that led to these changes came from one conference.

One place. One track. A dozen problems solved. How’s that for a smart move?

Next Level Leadership: Explore the Practice Management Track at WVC Vegas 2026

Veterinary management problems are constantly evolving, so your skills should be, too. The Practice Management track at WVC Vegas 2026 is designed to help practice owners, managers, and leaders:

• Get confident with practical tools and strategies you can implement right away.
• Get connected to industry leaders in every aspect of practice management, practice purchasing and ownership, financial wellness, and more.
• Go all in on an array of relevant topics, including ownership, leadership, marketing, pricing, team building, AI use, recruitment and retention, and cybersecurity. Plus, interactive workshops on DEA compliance, building a budget, mental wellness for leaders, creating a workplace culture, financial health, and more.

Managing a veterinary practice takes adaptability, problem-solving, and a level of resilience like no other. Most of us step into the role with high hopes—about the kind of leader we’ll be, the team we’ll build, and the culture we’ll create. And while reality has a way of testing all of that, sometimes for the worst, WVC Vegas 2026 delivers the kind of practical education and expert guidance that helps those early expectations hold up—and evolve into something stronger and far more sustainable.

Ready to get confident, get connected, and go all in for your practice and career? Registration is now open for WVC Vegas 2026! Lock in yours now to secure early bird pricing and your preferred accommodations.