A #DelVal student reached out to interview me about horsemanship for her careers class… and it reminded me how much teaching horsemanship matters to me....like in my bones.
With her permission I want to share her interview 
Shout out to Ava Morgan and Delaware Valley University!
Here’s a bit about my career and a few thoughts for students heading into this industry.
1) what degrees do you have and where they were from?
Answer:
I earned an Associate of Equine Studies from Delaware Valley University. My work centers on feel-based horsemanship and postural health as the foundation for building sound, versatile equine athletes. That focus gives me a unique perspective on horse care, training, and behavior.
(2) the career steps you took to get there?
Answer:
After graduating I gained hands-on experience in a variety of equine settings — working in tack shops, assisting trainers, boarding barns, and therapeutic programs.
I volunteered as the training coordinator at Safe Harbor Sanctuary for five years and now run my own lesson and training program. Over time I developed an approach to rehabilitation and training that emphasizes partnership, balance, and listening to the horse. Continuous learning and observing horse-centered trainers has been essential.
(3) what your day-to-day work is like
Answer:
No two days are the same. I plan sessions, train and assess movement and posture, problem-solve physical and behavioral issues, and communicate progress with clients. Much of my job is observation, adapting plans to each horse’s needs, and helping horses build strength, confidence, and cooperation. I also consider herd dynamics, environment, nutrition, and the horse’s overall well-being when making training decisions.
(4) what advice do you have for current students that may want a similar job someday?
Answer:
Be curious and keep learning — every horse teaches you something new.
Learn to observe. Small details matter.
Build strong communication skills with both horses and people.
Be adaptable; working with animals rarely looks the same every day.
Learn the basics of running a small business — even if you plan to work for someone else someday.
Learn practical hoof care and how to work with a good farrier and veterinarian (hooves and x-rays matter).
Study biomechanics — how a horse’s body moves will inform everything you do.
Know how to evaluate hay quality and manage feeds efficiently.
Get insurance for your business and understand basic legal/safety practices.
Especially as a woman, protect yourself professionally: set boundaries, know your limits, and have a career plan that can adapt if your physical capacity changes.
Journal your training, nutrition, and observations — writing clarifies thinking and builds confidence.
Slow down. Progress with horses is often measured in months, not days. Patience and consistency win.
Seek out experienced, horse-centered mentors — people who have done the work in the arena and care about the horse first.
A few industry truths I care about:
The sport and industry will improve when we stop measuring trainers only by show results and start prioritizing the horse’s soundness and long-term welfare.
Your horse is your teacher — pay attention and lead with calm, confident consistency.
