Introduction
At the University of Idaho, we have had the privilege of witnessing tremendous growth and diversification in the field of athletic training over the last decade or so. Athletic trainers, with their comprehensive knowledge of musculoskeletal injuries, therapeutic techniques, and preventive care, are no longer limited to traditional sports settings. Today, I want to shed light on some exciting and unique alternative jobs for athletic trainers available. Whether you are interested in working in an industrial setting or theme park, this blog will help you explore the question “Where can you work as an athletic trainer?”
Alternative Job Settings for Athletic Trainers
Beyond traditional sports teams and clinics, athletic trainers are finding fulfilling careers in alternative job settings. Here are a few noteworthy options:
Industrial
The role of an industrial athletic trainer has gained prominence in recent years as industries increasingly prioritize employee health and safety. Having an athletic trainer on-staff can decrease costs to employers, with gains seen particularly in decreased worker’s compensation claims and sick-leave for injury recovery. These professionals work closely with employees in various industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, and construction sites. By applying their expertise in injury prevention and treatment, industrial athletic trainers help reduce workplace injuries, facilitate rehabilitation, and improve overall employee well-being. An industrial athletic trainer job description may include conducting workplace safety evaluations, designing safety programs, and providing on-site medical care.
Military
The armed forces recognize the importance of injury prevention and rehabilitation. Athletic trainers may serve in clinics on military installations, at boot camps, or providing wellness services to personnel preparing for deployment or recently returning from active duty.
Occupational health
In corporate environments, athletic trainers can join occupational health programs. They play a vital role in preventing and managing work-related injuries, educating employees on ergonomics and proper body mechanics, and promoting overall wellness in the workplace. According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), approximately 60% of athletic trainer services in occupational health are preventative in nature.
Public safety and emergency services
Firefighters and police officers have a higher rate of work-related injuries compared to most other occupations. Athletic trainers can work with these public safety personnel, providing injury prevention training, immediate care during emergencies, and rehabilitation services following injuries sustained in the line of duty. They can reduce worker’s compensation claims, improve time loss, keep employees healthy, and return injured employees to the job quickly and safely.
Performing arts
Athletic trainers have found a unique niche in performing arts. They provide specialized care to dancers, actors, musicians, and other performers, helping them maintain peak physical condition and prevent performance-related injuries. From providing stretching routines to managing acute injuries, performing arts athletic trainers play a vital role in the longevity and well-being of these talented individuals.
Theme parks
Athletic trainers are being employed more and more in theme parks, working with some of the populations listed above. Theme parks hire many performers and industrial employees and rely on athletic trainers to keep them safe and healthy.
Conclusion
So, where can athletic trainers be employed? The field of athletic training offers a diverse range of employment opportunities beyond the traditional sports setting. From industrial athletic trainers to performing arts athletic trainers, demand continues to expand. Here at the University of Idaho, our unique model (with close to 200 clinical sites!) means we are particularly well situated to help students interested in alternative settings. If you are considering embarking into the field of athletic training, I hope this blog post inspired you to explore these unique career paths and envision the many possibilities.