Athletic trainers play a crucial role in the sports industry, working with athletes to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. Despite their importance, many athletic trainers face challenges in terms of salary. However, there are several ways to boost athletic trainer salary, and in this article, we will explore over 10 strategies to help athletic trainers increase their earnings.
Developing Specialized Skills
Athletic trainers can increase their salary by developing specialized skills that are in high demand. For example, certification in strength and conditioning can be a valuable asset, as many teams and athletes are looking for trainers who can help them improve their performance. Additionally, knowledge of sports-specific injuries can be a major advantage, as athletic trainers who can provide expert care for injuries such as concussions or ACL tears can command higher salaries. Some of the specialized skills that athletic trainers can develop include:
- Certification in orthopedic specialty
- Experience with athletic tape and bracing
- Knowledge of nutrition and sports dietetics
- Experience with electronic medical records
Obtaining Advanced Degrees
Obtaining advanced degrees can be a great way for athletic trainers to boost their salary. A master’s degree in athletic training can provide advanced knowledge and skills, and can also lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Additionally, a doctoral degree in athletic training can provide the highest level of education and training, and can lead to the highest-paying job opportunities. Some of the benefits of obtaining advanced degrees include:
| Degree Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 45,000 - 60,000 |
| Master’s Degree | 60,000 - 80,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | 80,000 - 100,000 |
Networking and Building Relationships
Networking and building relationships can be a great way for athletic trainers to boost their salary. By building relationships with coaches, athletes, and other sports professionals, athletic trainers can gain access to job opportunities and increase their visibility in the industry. Some of the ways to network and build relationships include:
- Attending industry conferences and events
- Joining professional organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA)
- Volunteering to work with local sports teams or events
- Building relationships with coaches and athletes through social media or in-person interactions
Developing a Strong Online Presence
Developing a strong online presence can be a great way for athletic trainers to boost their salary. By creating a professional website or social media profile, athletic trainers can showcase their skills and experience, and increase their visibility to potential employers. Some of the ways to develop a strong online presence include:
Creating a professional website that showcases skills and experience
Building a strong social media presence on platforms such as Twitter or LinkedIn
Developing a personal brand that showcases expertise and values
Pursuing Non-Traditional Job Opportunities
Pursuing non-traditional job opportunities can be a great way for athletic trainers to boost their salary. By considering job opportunities outside of traditional sports settings, athletic trainers can gain access to higher-paying jobs and increase their career advancement opportunities. Some of the non-traditional job opportunities include:
- Working in corporate wellness or fitness
- Working in physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Working in sports marketing or management
- Working in education or research
Considering Freelance or Consulting Work
Considering freelance or consulting work can be a great way for athletic trainers to boost their salary. By offering services on a freelance or consulting basis, athletic trainers can gain access to higher-paying jobs and increase their career advancement opportunities. Some of the benefits of freelance or consulting work include:
| Job Type | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Employment | 50,000 - 70,000 |
| Freelance or Consulting Work | 70,000 - 100,000 |
What are some ways to boost athletic trainer salary?
+Some ways to boost athletic trainer salary include developing specialized skills, obtaining advanced degrees, networking and building relationships, developing a strong online presence, pursuing non-traditional job opportunities, and considering freelance or consulting work.
How can athletic trainers develop specialized skills?
+Athletic trainers can develop specialized skills by obtaining certification in areas such as strength and conditioning, orthopedic specialty, or sports-specific injuries. They can also gain experience working with athletic tape and bracing, or develop knowledge of nutrition and sports dietetics.
What are some non-traditional job opportunities for athletic trainers?
+Some non-traditional job opportunities for athletic trainers include working in corporate wellness or fitness, physical therapy or rehabilitation, sports marketing or management, or education or research.
