One radio advertisement helped Courtney Soltau discover a career that would shape the next 23 years of her life.
During her senior year of high school, Courtney was considering two very different paths: nursing or veterinary medicine. Then, while driving one day, she heard an advertisement about veterinary technology.
“It immediately caught my attention because it was the perfect combination of the two things I was interested in,” Courtney recalled.
She had always cared deeply about animals and their welfare. Veterinary technology offered an opportunity to pair that passion with her interest in medicine, nursing and hands-on patient care.
Courtney enrolled in Stautzenberger College’s Veterinary Technology program shortly after graduating from high school in 2001. It required commitment from the beginning. She commuted approximately an hour each way to attend classes while working part time at a veterinary clinic in Williams County.
Despite the demanding schedule, Courtney found a supportive learning environment where students were encouraged to participate, ask questions and develop practical skills.
“The instructors and students were engaged and available,” she said. “There was always a strong sense of support and involvement, which made a lasting impression on me.”
Building a Strong Foundation
Courtney’s education extended beyond the classroom. By working in a general veterinary practice, completing volunteer hours and participating in externships, she gained experience that helped her feel prepared to begin her career after graduating in 2003.
That strong foundation opened doors to several areas of veterinary medicine. Early in her career, Courtney worked with exotic animals and even spent time working in the zoo world. Each experience allowed her to expand her knowledge and discover new possibilities within the profession.
Those experiences helped shape the career she has today. As Nursing Manager at VEG ER for Pets in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Courtney combines her clinical background with a passion for leadership, teaching, and mentoring other veterinary nursing professionals.
“Watching people grow in their skills and confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do,” she said.
Her career has evolved from providing direct clinical care to helping guide the teams delivering that care. Courtney also advocates for the veterinary nursing profession and the essential role veterinary technicians play in supporting patients, pet owners and veterinary teams.
A Career With Purpose
Veterinary medicine can be emotionally and physically demanding, but Courtney says the work remains deeply meaningful.
“After 23 years in veterinary medicine, I still find purpose in helping patients, supporting their families and being part of a team that makes a difference,” she said. “I can honestly say I’ve never regretted choosing this career.”
“Most importantly, this career has given me a sense of purpose,” she said. “I’m proud of the work I do and grateful that a career I discovered through a radio ad during my senior year of high school has become such a meaningful part of my life.”
Her advice to future veterinary technology students is simple: take the first step, remain curious and stay open to where the profession may lead.
“You don’t have to know exactly where your career will take you,” Courtney said. “Build a strong foundation, keep learning and allow your interests to guide you.”
Stautzenberger College proudly celebrates Courtney and the veterinary professionals whose compassion, knowledge, and skill make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals, their families, and the communities they serve.
Explore Veterinary Technology at Stautzenberger College
Inspired by Courtney’s journey? Stautzenberger College’s Veterinary Technology program helps students build foundational knowledge and hands-on skills for careers in veterinary medicine.
Explore the Veterinary Technology program to learn more about the curriculum, training opportunities, and how to get started.