Zachary Joseph Herbert, BS
Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Ivins, UT
Member Since: 2023
Why did you join AAOS?
I joined AAOS to immerse myself in the orthopaedic community and grow in the field I plan to enter. Membership has opened doors to world-class educational resources, the annual meeting, and opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. It allows me to stay current with advances in orthopaedic care while connecting with surgeons, residents, and fellow students who share my passion for the specialty.
What are you looking forward to most about AAOS?
Looking ahead, I’m excited to deepen my involvement with AAOS—continuing to attend the annual meeting, staying at the forefront of new research and surgical techniques, and learning from leaders who are shaping the future of orthopaedics.
What interested you about orthopaedics?
I was drawn to orthopaedics for its breadth and impact—from managing acute injuries like fractures and dislocations to restoring long-term independence, activity, and quality of life through joint replacement. The field lets me approach medicine through a biomechanical lens, using a deep understanding of anatomy and motion to solve problems. I also value the hands-on nature of the work, where precise technique and teamwork translate directly into helping patients regain function.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received came from Dr. Tom Calton, an outstanding joint replacement surgeon, friend, and mentor. His advice centered on not deferring happiness until some future milestone was achieved, but rather finding joy in the process. The path to a career in orthopaedic surgery is demanding, and it is easy to become fixated on outcomes—whether board exam scores or matching into orthopaedic residency—while losing sight of the present. Remembering to stay engaged and purposeful at every stage has kept me grounded, and despite the inevitable ups and downs, I wouldn’t trade this pursuit for anything else.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
My go-to productivity trick typically involves throwing on noise-canceling headphones and closing the door to whatever room I’m in. However, I’ve come to realize that being active has the greatest overall impact on my productivity. When I’m struggling to stay focused or work efficiently, I’ve found it helps more to step away and exercise—however long that may be—rather than forcing myself to push through unproductively.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
One habit I’m working to establish is a brief stretching and mobility session each morning and evening. Long days on rotations often make it hard to fit in longer workouts, and this small addition helps me stay energized and maintain flexibility.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I’ve been an avid rock climber for the past five years. Climbing has introduced me to an incredible community, taken me to places I might never have visited, and challenged me both mentally and physically in ways I find deeply rewarding. During my second year of medical school, I also began playing pickleball with a few classmates, which quickly became another great way to connect with people. I stay active in the local pickleball community—helping organize recreational games and playing in tournaments. In the summer I enjoy wakeboarding and being on the water, and in the winter I look forward to skiing and snowboarding.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
In 2016, I ruptured my right pectoralis tendon while wakeboarding and chose nonoperative treatment. Despite the injury, I went on to set personal bests as a national-level weightlifter and continue to challenge myself to perform at a high level in all athletic endeavors.