Career experiences of female certified athletic trainers at NCAA Division III institutions

Abstract

Purpose of this study was to explore the career experiences of female athletic trainers at the NCAA Division III setting. The study examined: (a) the effect (if any) of the participant’s sex on their work experience, (b) common obstacles females faced in their career, (c) the relationship women had with other women in the profession, and (d) the appeal (if any) of the NCAA Division III setting. The participants consisted of 22 female certified athletic trainers employed in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III setting. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants from March to May 2008, and interviews were analyzed with the use of open and axial coding. The findings were organized into three major themes: (a) a need for balance between professional and personal lives, (b) working in a male-dominated profession, and (c) relationships with other female athletic trainers. Results also included trainers’ general satisfaction with the Division III level of opportunity, and mixed desires and barriers to working at a higher level in colleges or at the professional level.