An In Depth Look with… Chad Stephens, LAT, ATC          

Describe your setting:

I am a product manager for Cramer Products.  I am responsible for developing new products that Athletic Trainers (ATs) use on a daily basis in the athletic training facility, on the field, or wherever the job takes them.  Many of our products are field tested by ATs and then improved based on our communication with them.  We are continually looking for ways to improve products that will make the job of an AT  easier.  Cramer Products has a long tradition with the NATA and will continue to support the athletic training community. 

How long have you worked in this setting?

I am currently in my first year with Cramer Products.  For the past 10 years I have been a certified and licensed AT working with high school athletes.  I hope those experiences will help me in developing new products that prove to be beneficial to ATs.  Many ATs learn from field experience.  I am taking the same approach.  We want to make great products that ATs want to use.  The only way to do that is by getting it in their hands.

Describe your typical day:

My job consists of a normal business hours.  I am responsible for reviewing products, making sure they are going to help the AT in their daily responsibilities.   I oversee the marketing strategies to bring the product into the market.  This includes how things are packaged, artwork, quality of materials, field testing, etc.  Although I am not in the field on a daily basis, I am speaking with ATs on a regular basis.  It is important for me to not only use my experiences, but those of other ATs to make sure we create a functional product that the ATs want to have.

What do you like about your position?

As an AT, I was rewarded to see the athletes compete at a high level on a daily basis.  When they were successful, I felt like I had a small part in aiding with their success.  It is no different in the business world.  If I can come up with things that are proven to be helpful and people are excited to use, then I feel that I am doing my job to the best of my ability.

What do you dislike about your position?

I will miss the competition aspect of athletic training.  Being on the field and helping athletes strive to achieve their goals is something I miss. Knowing that I am working for a great company with a long history in the athletic training community, makes me feel I am still a part of that community.

What advice do you have about your practice setting for a young athletic trainer looking at this setting?

There are many networks involving athletic training.  Keep the door open to new experiences.  As you gain more experience, your opportunities will grow as well.