Source: AVMA
Merck Animal Health launched the Veterinary Business Simulator Competition to teach Veterinary students essential business, leadership, and financial skills through a virtual clinic experience. Developed with the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) and Advantexe Learning Solutions, the simulator let students manage a fictional animal hospital, making real-world business decisions without real-world risks. Over five weeks, teams faced financial and ethical challenges—like staffing issues and equipment failures—while balancing revenue, employee morale, and client satisfaction.
The inaugural competition, announced at the 2025 AVMA Veterinary Business and Economic Forum, crowned Colorado State University’s team (Eric Gary, Gabrielle Shalabi, and Dr. Jasmine Blattner) as winners, earning $30,000. Participants reported improved confidence and practical business understanding, connecting financial literacy to professional wellbeing. Merck’s Dr. Taylor Tillery emphasized the simulator’s goal of preparing future veterinarians for leadership and financial realities. Plans are underway to expand access for students, graduates, and practice managers nationwide.