AT Demographics: Meeting the Needs of the AT Population

Following the completion of each recertification period, the BOC pulls data to develop a comprehensive BOC Certified AT Demographics report outlining the following characteristics: age, sex, gender, years certified, race/ethnicity, practice setting and location. This report allows the BOC and stakeholders to view patterns related to the Athletic Trainer (AT) population.

To gather a broader perspective and be able to better serve the individualized needs of ATs, the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Advocacy (IDEAS) Committee expanded demographic fields within BOC profiles for ATs in 2022. This refined data has enabled the BOC to assess issues around diversity within the athletic training profession, related to everything from exam administration to certification renewal with a clearer view of the characteristics that impact ATs, allowing us to better meet needs.

AT demographic data enables the BOC to assess issues around diversity within the athletic training profession, related to everything from exam administration to certification renewal. The BOC tracks representation among the pool of more than 500 volunteers. We have implemented recruitment and outreach processes to align this group as closely as possible with our overall demographic profile to ensure volunteers are representative of the AT population.

Going forward a work group within the IDEAS Committee was formed to continually assess and examine shifts in demographics, as well as proactively address such impacts on programs and processes at the BOC and within the athletic training profession. Additional demographic fields will be added, as needed.

“Having a better view of the characteristics that impact ATs allows us to more specifically and proactively meet their needs,” said IDEAS Committee co-chair Cathy Ortega, EdD, PT, ATC, OCS.

For more information visit the IDEAS Committee page.