Embarking on a career as a professional horse trainer is a journey that requires dedication, passion, and a well-defined path. For some, this path is a natural extension of a childhood filled with horseback riding lessons and youth competitions. For others, the journey begins later, perhaps during college or through actively seeking out mentorship from established trainers. This guide, drawing insights from industry professionals and reputable sources, explores the various avenues and essential elements for aspiring horse trainers to succeed in this demanding yet rewarding field.
Pursuing Education in Equine Science
Many aspiring horse trainers find a strong foundation through specialized college programs. Lamar Community College in Lamar, Colorado, offers an associate of applied science degree in horse training and management, focusing on western disciplines like cutting, reining, and roping. These programs provide hands-on experience, with students often starting multiple colts and completing internships with professional trainers. J.J. Rydberg, former program manager at Lamar, emphasizes the value of a degree as a safety net, allowing individuals to pursue further education or have a fallback option if their riding career is impacted by injury or a change in aspirations.
Four-year institutions also offer robust equine programs. The University of Findlay in Ohio provides associate of arts and bachelor of science degrees in horse training, with concentrations in English and western riding. Here, students like AQHA Professional Horseman Clark Bradley, a distinguished instructor, guide freshmen through fundamental horsemanship on the ground and in the saddle. As students progress, they engage in colt starting, work with finished horses, and prepare for competitive events. These programs often recommend minors in education, accounting, or business to equip students with essential business acumen, crucial for long-term career success. Kevin Meyer, a seasoned trainer, notes that while college programs introduce the training process, the real-world pace and demands of professional training require an all-consuming passion that cannot be fully replicated in an academic setting.
The Value of Apprenticeships and Hands-On Experience
For those who prefer a less academic route, apprenticeships offer an invaluable pathway to becoming a horse trainer. Joe Heim, a highly accomplished cutting horse trainer, stresses the ethical considerations of training client horses with inexperienced riders. To address this, he developed an apprenticeship program utilizing his own horses, allowing individuals to gain comprehensive, hands-on experience. Apprentices learn not only riding techniques and colt starting but also crucial aspects of daily horse care, including stall cleaning, feeding, and general livestock management. This immersive approach provides aspiring trainers with the practical skills and confidence needed to secure paid positions with established professionals.
Many professional trainers, like AQHA Professional Horseman Al Dunning, prefer candidates with practical experience over purely academic qualifications. Al emphasizes the importance of apprenticeships, stating, “The best thing you can do is go work for a trainer whom you want to be like.” He often requires resumes, videos, and a riding evaluation to gauge a candidate’s suitability. Apprentices typically start with fundamental tasks like grooming and loping horses, gradually progressing to training duties as their capabilities are demonstrated. This progression, coupled with direct mentorship, offers a realistic view of the demanding nature of the profession, as highlighted by hunter and equitation trainer Audrey Akin, who notes, “Training is a lot harder than people think. It’s not all blue ribbons and glamorous horse shows; it’s hard, dirty, tiring, long days, and apprenticing shows you the reality of being a horse trainer.” Working with experienced professionals provides essential insights into effective training methodologies and business practices.
Essential Skills Beyond Riding
Becoming a successful horse trainer extends far beyond riding prowess. Professionals like Al Dunning emphasize the critical importance of business and people skills. The ability to manage finances, market services, and communicate effectively with clients is paramount, especially considering that a significant portion of a trainer’s income may come from lessons, clinics, and other business ventures rather than solely from training fees. Many successful trainers, such as Audrey Akin, supplement their income through related businesses like real estate specializing in horse farms or offering boarding services.
Furthermore, trainers must cultivate an expert-level understanding in a specific niche. Being merely average is insufficient for financial success; trainers must strive to be among the top in their chosen discipline. Charlie Cole, a successful trainer and business partner, advises aspiring trainers to develop both good business and people skills, considering them as vital as riding ability. The industry also offers numerous related career paths, including barn management, sales, breeding management, and even positions like a loper, which allow individuals to remain connected to horses even if a traditional training career isn’t pursued. Ultimately, a successful horse trainer possesses a blend of talent, extensive knowledge, strong business acumen, and an unwavering passion for the well-being and development of horses. For those dedicated to mastering the craft, continuous learning and mentorship remain key, as exemplified by the wisdom shared by seasoned professionals: “Nobody ever learns on his own.”
The AQHA Professional Horsemen Association upholds rigorous standards for its members, ensuring qualified trainers who foster productive relationships between riders and horses. Nutrena, an AQHA Corporate Partner, actively supports these professionals through initiatives like the Professional Horsemen’s Crisis Fund, providing vital assistance during unforeseen hardships. Their commitment to equine nutrition further underscores the industry’s dedication to horse welfare.
