Wrapping Up 2025 & Looking Ahead
As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on an incredible 2025 and share a few highlights, helpful insights, and a sneak peek at what’s ahead for VATA in 2026.
Thank you for being part of our community—we’re so glad you’re here.
2025’s Rising Star: Penny Pediatric
Drumroll, please…
Penny Pediatric was 2025’s MVP! Since its Spring 2024 debut, Penny has quickly become a customer favorite—and one of our most trusted IO trainers.
Here’s why Penny stands out:
- Unmatched realism: Anatomically accurate design with lifelike materials, from palpable patella to realistic skin resistance.
- Dual access points: The first pediatric IO trainer offering access at both the distal femur and proximal tibia.
- Durability: 190+ access attempts out of the box, with reversible bones and multiple access points designed for heavy, repeated use.
- Incredible value: At just $475, Penny delivers advanced pediatric IO training with replaceable components that help reduce long-term costs.
- Premium quality: Durable, high-performance materials designed to support safe, effective training and build real confidence.
Top Customer Questions of 2025
Our customers ask some great questions—and our Office Manager, Mary, is often the friendly, knowledgeable voice on the other end of the phone helping answer them. She fields questions day in and day out and keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. With her deep product knowledge and genuine care for our customers, we’ve rounded up a few of the questions we hear most often:
My ultrasound phantom image isn’t as clear as it used to be—is it broken?
Probably not! Over time, a small amount of fluid can naturally evaporate, which can cause the image to look less sharp or slightly distorted. In most cases, a simple refill is all it takes to restore image clarity—quick and easy. Watch our short refill video for step-by-step instructions...
Helpful tip: Avoid overfilling, as this can cause leaking. If pressure builds, gently elevating the base at a slight angle can help relieve it.
I’ve had my Chester Chest for 20 years—can it be refurbished?
Yes—Chester was built to last, and refurbishment is often a great option. Nearly all components are replaceable, and even older Chester arms can be refurbished. Our team cleans and polishes the model, replaces all internal blood lines, and refreshes key components to keep it training-ready for years to come.
2025 Refurb pricing: $475
Includes internal component replacement and detailed cleaning. (Base, torso shell, and arm are not replaced.)
- Catheter installation can be added for an additional fee.
- For comparison, the 2025 Chester is $891, or approximately $1,035 with port access.
Not sure which option is best? Reach out—we’re happy to help you decide.
How should I clean my VATA products?
Proper cleaning goes a long way in protecting and extending the life of your models. We’ve put together recommended cleaning methods based on materials and product type, including what to use—and what to avoid. Visit our blog for cleaning and care best practices...
Are your products latex-free?
Yes—almost all VATA products are latex-free. The only exception is Peter PICC Line™, which contains latex in the blue veins only. If latex sensitivity is a concern, our team can help you select the right model with confidence.
What are your typical lead times?
Most standard VATA products ship in about two weeks. Lead times for custom products or distributor inventory may vary, but if you’re working with a tight deadline, please reach out—we’ll always do our best to accommodate your timeline.
Do you have sales reps in my area?
While we don’t have outside sales reps, our in-house team is here to help. We respond to emails within 24 hours and provide personalized support by phone or email. You can also connect with us in person at trade shows throughout the year—we love meeting customers face to face.
Thanks for sharing your insights with us, Mary!
Holiday Traditions at VATA
The holiday season is all about connection—and at VATA, we love celebrating it together and in our own unique ways. In the office, that means our annual Christmas Lunch, festive outfits (antlers and elf booties not required—but definitely encouraged!), and a white elephant gift exchange that never fails to deliver a few laughs.
We’re so grateful to have a team that truly feels like family and makes VATA a welcoming, supportive, and fun place to be—during the holidays and all year long.
New Year, New Trade Shows
We’re excited to kick off 2026 in San Antonio at IMSH—and that’s just the beginning.
Where to find us in 2026:
- IMSH | Jan 10–14 | San Antonio, TX | Booth #943
- SAWC | Apr 8–12 | Charlotte, NC | Booth #1243
- INS | Apr 11–14 | Louisville, KY | Booth #500
- ONS | May 13–17 | San Antonio, TX | Booth #948
- WOCN | May 31–June 2 | Indianapolis, IN | Booth #1331
- INACSL | June 10–13 | Oklahoma City, OK | Booth #217
Thank You
As we close out the year, thank you for your continued trust, collaboration, and support. We’re excited for all the innovation, connection, and learning that 2026 will bring—and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Warm holiday wishes,
Your friends at VATA