We have a variety of instructors that are present at every class. These instructors have well over a century of combined experience in equine dentistry. We also have one rotating instructor in every class that is selected from a pool of certified technicians and veterinarians.
During every class, 15-20 certified technicians come from all over the world to help teach the wet-lab portion of the course. These dedicated practitioners form the core of our continuing education program. They bring valuable experience from within their areas of interest and expertise to the Academy.
At the Academy, you will find a variety of instructors working together to provide the student with the best education possible, while simultaneously striving to provide the highest level of equine dental equilibration available.
Stephanie Carpenter
Office Manager and Student Services
Phone: 208.366.2315
Sean Strain, DVM CEqD
Sean Strain, DVM CEqD is originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Dr. Sean Strain earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. He completed his senior year at Oklahoma State University and went on to an internship at Merit & Associates in Wakanda, Illinois. Dr. Strain then practiced at Anabessacook Veterinary Clinic in Maine from 2003 to 2006.
In 2007, he founded Strain Equine Services LLC in Basehor, Kansas, where he provides equine veterinary and dental care. In 2013 Dr. Strain pursued advanced training in equine dentistry at the Academy of Equine Dentistry, earning certification in 2014.
In November of 2016, he became the head veterinarian for the Academy.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Strain is passionate about coaching youth softball, hunting, and spending time outdoors. He is happily married to his wife, Kelly, and they have two children, Kaitlyn and Callen.
Dr. Strain takes great pride in the educational impact of the Academy of Equine Dentistry, fostering learning and excellence among veterinarians and equine dental practitioners worldwide.
Nick Moore, DVM CEqD
Nick Moore, DVM CEqD grew up with horses on a ranch in south-central Montana. In 2001 he began his equine dentistry training at the Academy of Equine Dentistry. His experience and passion for this field eventually led him to attend veterinary school at Colorado State University. Following graduation from veterinary school, he obtained advanced training in equine medicine and surgery by completing an internship at Arizona Equine Medical and Surgical Centre. Dr. Moore has taught equine dentistry in conferences and wet labs in South America, Australia, Europe, and all over the USA. Today, he regularly travels across the USA to perform standing oral extractions and minimally invasive oral surgeries for referring to veterinary practices. He founded Moore Equine with the intention of providing state of the art equine dentistry services in a mobile setting. He is a past president of the International Association of Equine Dentistry and is a current member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). He has published several peer-reviewed papers on various aspects of equine dentistry.
John Fortkamp CEqD
John Fortkamp CEqD, is a renowned equine dentist whose passion for horse health has taken him far beyond his roots in the heartland of Ohio. Born and raised in a community steeped in agricultural traditions, Fortkamp developed an early fascination with performance horses, His career began with hands-on experience in rural equestrian settings, where he honed his skills in addressing dental issues that impact equine performance and well-being. Over the years, Fortkamp’s expertise has led him to work with performance horses across the United States, from Hawaii to Costa Rica, Germany, Australia, South Africa, and England. His commitment to advancing the field is evident in his role as a full-time lecturer and wet-lab instructor, where he shares practical techniques with aspiring professionals, blending traditional knowledge with innovative approaches to equine care.
As Dean of Students at The Academy of Equine Dentistry, Fortkamp continues to shape the next generation of equine dental specialists, fostering an environment of top-level training. His contributions extend to educational outreach, including lectures for prestigious organizations all over the world. Fortkamp’s pioneering work in developing new dental techniques has earned him respect among peers, elevating standards amongst colleagues. Beyond the classroom and clinic, he remains dedicated to the broader equestrian community, advocating for proactive dental maintenance to enhance horse longevity and performance, ensuring that riders and their equine partners can thrive together.
Nicolas Ladouceur, DVM CEqD
Dr. Nicolas Ladouceur, DVM CEqD is an equine veterinarian specializing in dental care at Moore Equine Dental Services, based in Georgetown, Texas. Originally from Quebec, Canada, he developed a passion for English riding and equine dentistry early on. After becoming a certified technician through the Academy of Equine Dentistry in 2011, he gained hands-on experience by assisting at Moore Equine. Dr. Ladouceur earned his veterinary degree from Ross University and completed his clinical training at Purdue University. Following graduation, he completed a one-year internship at Moore Equine and now serves as an associate veterinarian on their team.
Troy Walck CEqD is a seasoned equine dentistry professional and instructor at the Academy of Equine Dentistry, bringing more than 22 years of hands-on experience to the field. Raised on a working ranch, Troy developed a deep connection to horses from a young age, learning early on the value of attentive care, horsemanship, and the partnership between horse and handler.
His ranch upbringing naturally shaped his career path, leading him into equine dentistry where he has spent over two decades refining his skill, technique, and understanding of equine health. Known for his practical expertise, patient teaching style, and dedication to the well-being of every horse,
At the Academy of Equine Dentistry, he is recognized for blending real-world ranch knowledge with advanced dental methodology, helping students gain both confidence and competence. Troy’s lifelong passion for horses continues to drive his commitment to high-quality equine care and education.
Nick Stuckman RVT, CEqD
Nick Stuckman RVT, CEqD is originally from Ohio but now resides in Texas. He graduated from Stautzenberger College, Toledo, Ohio, in 2006 with a degree in Veterinary Technology. Nick has been certified in equine dentistry since November 2003. He currently performs dentistry at veterinary clinics in Texas, Louisiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. Nick has also been a guest lecturer at IAED, Trident, NVVGP dental conferences as well as Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and Tiffin University. At the academy Nick is one of anatomy class instructors, helps instruct during the dental classroom and wet lab, and assists in veterinary procedures.
Stanton Williams CEqD
Stanton Williams CEqD began his journey with the Academy of Equine Dentistry in February 2005 and earned his certification as an equine dentist in August 2006. Soon after, he joined the Academy’s instructional team, contributing both as a lecturer and as a wet-lab assistant, where he continues to support students in developing strong clinical skills. In 2015, Stanton became an examiner for the International Association of Equine Dentistry (IAED), participating in their annual meetings in Texas and Florida and staying engaged with continuing education presented by veterinarians and equine dental professionals from around the world. Native to Louisiana and now living in East Texas, Stanton grew up riding horses across multiple disciplines, competing in high school rodeo in roping and saddle bronc. After graduating, he worked for several trainers starting colts, further expanding his horsemanship through equine massage and farrier courses, as well as hands-on experience alongside veterinarians nationwide. Licensed in Texas, Stanton is committed to advancing his knowledge and skill set, always striving to become a better horseman and equine dental professional.
Chad Sandifer CEqD
Chad Sandifer CEqD from Grandview Washington started attending the Academy of Equine Dentistry in May of 2006. He completed his Certification at the Academy of Equine Dentistry in May of 2007. After his apprenticeship with several other practitioners and attending classes for continuing education he joined the staff as an instructor in November of 2008 and has been part of the faculty ever since. He is very honored to be a part of an industry leading program at the Academy.
When he isn’t working he and his wife spend their time hauling their kids around to Junior rodeos.
Kristy Chronister, RVT, CEqD
Kristy Chronister, RVT, CEqD is from Northeast, Ohio. She graduated from veterinary technician school in 2007 and went on to earn certification through the Academy of Equine Dentistry in 2009. Kristy became licensed as a veterinary technician in the state of Idaho soon after, assisting our veterinarians with extractions and sedation during class sessions. While at home she keeps up with a full time equine dental business, working with veterinarians around Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Jodi Miller CEqD
Jodi Miller CEqD is an instructor at the Academy of Equine Dentistry and has been a Certified Equine Dentist since 2009. Originally from Grayslake, Illinois, Jodi began her journey with the Academy in 2006, completing her training and certification before returning each year for ongoing professional development.
Now part of the Academy’s instructional team, Jodi creates course schedules and lectures, supports D300-level training, and helps certification-track students meet all requirements. In addition to equine dentistry, she also provides dental care for non-equine hoofstock. Outside of work, Jodi enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes.
Jaylan Holland CEqD
Jaylan Holland CEqD is from a little town out in east Texas. I’ve grown up around horses and livestock my whole life and I do a little team roping when I can. I’ve always had a passion for everything outdoors and hunting too. After going to school out in Stephenville, TX, I then spent a few years in the oil field. When I realized I wanted a career in something I was passionate about, and that’s when I found the Academy of Equine Dentistry. July 2022 was my first session at the Academy, and little did I know I had found another family and home away from home there. I officially certified with AED and IAED in November of 2023 and I’ve been going back ever since to help on the teaching and stall leading side of things. I never would’ve realized just how much everyone at the academy would have an impact on my life even after we all leave and go home after each session. The connections made through the academy have brought so many people I can now call good friends, across the states especially and even across the globe. I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to give back to the program that gave me so much and hopefully am able to inspire the next generation of equine dentists along the way.