Stephen is a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) with certification as a Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) through the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science. He is specialized in anesthesia and pain management by qualifying and passing the certification exams as a Surgical Research Anesthetist (SRA) through the Academy of Surgical Research, is one of a handful of Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioners (CVPP) in the country through the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management, where he was also a board member. He also became a member of the VTS community with a focus 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 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/committees, 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.

**In an effort to support marginalized communities, people who can get pregnant and women’s health care, he will be limiting his physical presence in certain states for contract or speaking.**