Since the 1970s, the percentage of female NATA memberships has increased from less than 1% to 55%. As exciting as it is to see that number skyrocket over the last 40 plus years, we can’t help but notice the female retention rate within the profession as well. According to a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training in 2011, “female athletic trainers tend to leave the profession around age 28 and a general decline of female athletic trainers in the workforce occurred after age 30.”

When Alisha Pennington began ATvanatge, her goal was to provide work opportunities to ATs in a non-traditional way. She saw a need to provide diverse opportunities to fit the needs of all ATs, as well as the need for AT services to potential clients who may not require full-time services. This idea has proven very successful over the last 6 years, not only for ATvantage, but for many ATs who have remained in the profession because they had the opportunity to work in a part-time or contract capacity.

In May, we will be featuring stories from several female ATs who have worked with ATvantage to accommodate their particular needs. Whether it be to raise a family or work in a non-traditional role, we recognize the impact these opportunities have made. We also want to share these particular stories with other ATs who may feel stuck, in hopes of inspiring them to consider non-traditional opportunities and ultimately increase the retention rate of women in the athletic training profession.