The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is excited to announce that it will host a Career Fair for college equestrians attending the 2023 Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association National Championships. The Career Fair will take place on Friday, May 5, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kentucky Horse Park’s Alltech Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The Career Fair will provide collegiate Hunt Seat and Western riders with the opportunity to meet with potential employers, network with industry professionals, and learn about career paths within the equine industry.
“We are thrilled to host this Career Fair for our IHSA members and riders,” said Kevin Price, USHJA executive director. “The IHSA has been a longstanding and valued partner of the USHJA and we are proud to support the career development of these talented young equestrians. The equine industry offers a wide variety of career paths, and we are excited to provide our IHSA members with the opportunity to explore their career options and make valuable connections.”
Representatives from a wide range of companies and organizations will be in attendance, including Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, EQ Media, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Kentucky Equine Management Internship (KEMI), Kentucky Equine Research, the Kentucky Horse Park, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, The Plaid Horse, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, Spy Coast Farm, the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association, the University of Kentucky, US Equestrian and other industry-related businesses. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with representatives, discuss potential career and internship opportunities, and learn about the skills and experience required for various positions.
The USHJA Career Fair is open to all college equestrians attending the IHSA National Finals. Attendees are encouraged to bring their resumes and riding attire is acceptable.
“The IHSA is so grateful to USHJA’s support over the years,” said IHSA Executive Director Peter Cashman. “We are especially excited about the Career Fair, sponsored by USHJA, at this year’s Nationals. This event is a significant benefit to IHSA graduating seniors and members who want to explore their career options.”
Earlier this year, the USHJA announced another collaboration with the IHSA to benefit the membership by designating 2023 IHSA Zone Championships and the IHSA National Championship Horse Show as USHJA Outreach Competitions.
“Our partnership with the IHSA has strengthened significantly this year, resulting in great success in providing valuable programs and benefits to our USHJA and collegiate members,” said Price. “We look forward to continuing to work with the IHSA and further expanding our partnership for the benefit of our members in the years to come.”
About the IHSA
The Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) welcomes all genders at a range of riding levels and offers individual and team competition in hunter seat equitation, Western horsemanship, ranch riding and reining at more than 400 member colleges and universities. Membership in IHSA means that college students can participate in horse shows regardless of their experience or financial status. Students compete from beginner through advanced with suitable, provided horses, eliminating the expense of horse ownership.
Founded in 1967 by Bob Cacchione, it is the oldest and largest intercollegiate equestrian organization with 10,000 members in 47 states and Canada. IHSA college and university team participation is represented through a variety of programs, including varsity athletics, academic departments and club sports. IHSA offers valuable hands-on experience and professional development in multiple facets of the equine industry. Many IHSA teams participate in service projects, giving back to their communities. Through the IHSA, students enhance their college experience and develop the tools that help build successful careers.
For more information, go to IHSAinc.com or contact media@IHSAinc.com.
About the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association
The United States Hunter Jumper Association, as the official Hunter/Jumper affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation, is a competition-based sport organization that serves our members through educational programs, awards and recognition, communication, and rules. We provide a wide array of programs for all Hunter/Jumper levels, and we are mindful of the well-being of our equine partners. Additionally, we are committed to preserving the history of our sport, and through our Foundation, we support charitable and benevolent services. Learn more at ushja.org.
Media Contact:
Louise Taylor
ltaylor@ushja.org
(859) 225-6700