Kristin Wright
Kristin Wright, MS, ATC, PES, is a dedicated and experienced Certified Athletic Trainer currently serving as the Associate Director of Sports Medicine at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. With a strong academic foundation that includes a Master of Science in Athletic Training from Northern Arizona University and a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from California State University, Monterey Bay, Kristin has built her career on providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to diverse athletic populations. Her professional journey spans roles in universities, community colleges, clinics, and sports teams, highlighting her adaptability and passion for athletic healthcare.
Kristin’s commitment to excellence in athletic training is evident in her leadership roles, teaching contributions, and volunteer service. In addition to her work at the University of the Pacific, she has supported professional and school-level sports teams, served as a visiting instructor, and earned honors like induction into Iota Tau Alpha, the Athletic Training Honor Society. With a deep dedication to continuous learning, integrity in care, and mentoring the next generation of sports medicine professionals, Kristin stands out as a compassionate and skilled leader in the healthcare and athletics field.
• ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
• Certified Athletic Trainer
• Certification in Applied Functional Science
• Performance Enhancement Specialist
• CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers
• Feather River Community College District- A.A.
• California State University, Monterey Bay- B.S.
• Northern Arizona University- M.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my journey as a former athlete and the impactful experiences I had during college. While playing women’s basketball as a utility player, I sustained an injury that introduced me to the world of sports medicine. The care I received from the athletic trainers and sports doctors inspired me deeply — I knew then that I wanted to make that kind of impact on others. That drive, combined with the influence of incredible mentors and predecessors during my college years, shaped my path. One mentor in particular recognized my dedication as an intern and personally recommended me for a master’s program, which became a pivotal step in my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was from a mentor who told me that while our profession is often seen as being a Jack of all trades, it's possible — and powerful — to also become a master of one. He emphasized the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone to build relationships across departments, which not only broadened my perspective but also opened doors, like when a head coach I’d never met already knew of my impact through the network I had built.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is the lack of mandatory licensure and certification in California, which can let some professionals slip through the cracks as the state works toward stricter regulations. Additionally, many outside the profession don’t fully understand the depth of our work, professionalism, and expertise, which often leads to inadequate compensation for our skills.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty, integrity, and passion, especially as I enjoy mentoring and supporting student-athletes—giving back in ways I never had growing up without an athletic department.