The journey to Becoming A Horse Trainer can stem from a lifelong passion for horses, often beginning with childhood riding lessons and youth showing circuits. However, for those new to the equestrian world, the path may start later, perhaps during college or through apprenticeships with established trainers. This guide delves into the various avenues and essential considerations for aspiring horse professionals, drawing insights from seasoned experts in the field.
Educational Pathways: Colleges and Universities
Several two- and four-year institutions offer specialized equine programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in horse training and management.
Lamar Community College in Lamar, Colorado, provides a comprehensive two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in horse training and management. This program focuses on hands-on experience, with students actively involved in starting and training colts, gaining practical skills through a required internship with a professional trainer. J.J. Rydberg, former program manager, highlights the advantage of obtaining a degree, which offers a valuable fallback option.
Four-year institutions, such as the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio, offer Associate of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees in English or Western riding. These programs, like the one led by AQHA Professional Horseman Clark Bradley, provide a structured curriculum covering horsemanship fundamentals, colt starting, and advanced training techniques tailored to specific disciplines like reining, pleasure, and cutting. The curriculum often includes complementary subjects such as judging, nutrition, and horse reproduction.
Instructors at these institutions frequently recommend minors in education, accounting, or business. These additional studies are crucial for developing essential business acumen, financial management skills, and the ability to effectively run a training operation, as many successful trainers emphasize that business skills are as vital as riding prowess. Learn more about how to become a horse trainer with no experience.
The Apprenticeship Route: Gaining Hands-On Experience
For individuals who prefer a more direct, hands-on approach, apprenticeships offer an invaluable opportunity to learn the intricacies of horse training under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Joe Heim, a renowned cutting horse trainer, emphasizes the importance of ethical training practices. He developed an apprenticeship program using his own horses to provide aspiring trainers with extensive, daily experience in all facets of horse care and training, from stall cleaning to riding and advanced techniques. This immersive approach allows apprentices to develop their skills and gain the practical knowledge necessary to secure professional positions.
AQHA Professional Horseman Al Dunning stresses the significance of practical experience, stating that while a college education is beneficial, it’s the hands-on knowledge gained through apprenticeship that truly prepares individuals for the demands of the industry. He requires prospective hires to provide resumes and videos, followed by an in-person interview and riding assessment, to gauge their experience and suitability. Apprentices typically start with fundamental tasks, gradually progressing to training responsibilities as their capabilities are demonstrated.
Audrey Akin, a hunter and equitation trainer, notes that apprenticeships offer a realistic preview of the demanding nature of horse training, highlighting that it involves long, arduous days filled with challenging horses, not just the glamour of competition.
The Realities of a Horse Trainer’s Career
Becoming a successful horse trainer extends beyond riding skills; it requires a multifaceted skill set and a deep understanding of business management.
Financial Considerations
The financial landscape for horse trainers can be challenging, especially in the early stages of their careers. Salaries for apprentices can be modest, often less than $2,000 per month, though housing may be provided. Many aspiring trainers, like Charlie Cole, acknowledge working for little or no pay initially, driven by the desire to learn from the best. This financial reality underscores the importance of supplementary income streams.
Supplementing Income
To navigate the financial challenges, many trainers develop diverse income strategies. Audrey Akin, for instance, works as a real estate agent specializing in horse farms and also offers boarding and riding lessons to support her training business. Kevin Meyer points out the numerous other crucial roles within the equestrian industry, such as barn management, marketing, sales, and breeding management, offering alternative career paths for those who may not pursue training full-time.
Essential Qualities for Success
Experts consistently emphasize that success as a horse trainer hinges on more than just talent. A combination of people skills, business acumen, and specialized expertise is paramount. Al Dunning advises trainers to become experts in a particular niche, aiming for the top 10 percent to achieve financial success. Strong communication and teaching abilities are vital for giving lessons and conducting clinics, contributing to a trainer’s overall viability.
Ultimately, a deep-seated passion for horses and the training process is indispensable. Joe Heim advises aspiring trainers to pursue this career not solely for financial gain, as only a small percentage achieve significant wealth. The remaining professionals earn a living, requiring prudent financial planning and saving for the future, especially given the self-employed nature of the profession.
Continuous Learning and Professional Development
The pursuit of knowledge and skill enhancement is a lifelong commitment for horse trainers. The consensus among professionals is that continuous learning is essential for growth and improvement.
“Nobody ever learns on his own. Work with people who are more knowledgeable than you and learn from their mistakes as well as from making your own mistakes.” – Joe Heim
“Horse training is 25 percent talent and 75 percent knowledge. You’ve got to have some talent, but you’ve also got to have lots of knowledge – you can’t fake it.” – Al Dunning
“Watch, listen, learn and spend as much time as you can riding and being coached by the best horsemen you can find.” – Charlie Cole
The AQHA Professional Horsemen Association plays a vital role in supporting qualified trainers who are dedicated to fostering productive relationships between riders and horses. Members adhere to a strict code of ethics, demonstrating their commitment to the welfare of both horse and rider. Furthermore, initiatives like the Nutrena-supported AQHA Professional Horsemen’s Crisis Fund provide essential assistance to members facing unforeseen hardships, reflecting the industry’s dedication to its professionals. Discover more about the steps to becoming a horse trainer.
