Across the U.S., food animal producers are facing a serious shortage of veterinarians. While access to veterinary care is critical to raising healthy and productive animals, the science is also on the front line in maintaining national food security.

This Special Report, authored by Clint Peck of the BEEF Magazine editorial team, outlines various complicated and sometimes overwhelming challenges food animal veterinarians are experiencing in meeting the demands of the workforce. We delve into programs to help students enter veterinary medical colleges. Sensitive issues of gender disparity and race equality are also addressed as we look into the future of veterinary medicine.