Road to the Top Announces Launch of Apprentice Program
Road to the Top Tier 1 Athlete Carlee McCutcheon has spent the last year and a half mentored by Laura Kraut. Photo by Catie Staszak Media, Inc.
In a groundbreaking expansion of its Tier 1 program, Road the Top is broadening its impact on future equestrian leaders with the launch of the RTTT Apprentice Program.
The RTTT Apprentice Program is a six‑month, high‑accountability apprenticeship designed for emerging show jumping professionals already proving themselves in the competition ring. Apprentices train inside an elite program, learning how top stables operate—from daily horse care systems, basic veterinary care proficiency and process, and competition planning to client communication and professional standards—while receiving consistent coaching, feedback, and formal evaluation. At the conclusion of the six-month program, Apprentices will be evaluated by the RTTT mentors.
"Road to the Top has made incredible advancements in the last year and a half," said RTTT Executive Director Sissy Wickes. "The Apprentice Program is a fantastic opportunity for us to advance the careers of more deserving athletes, ultimately introducing a greater number of talented, knowledgeable, and capable professionals into our industry."
Applications for the RTTT Apprentice Program are now available online.
APPRENTICE PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be competing in the jumper ring with current results and video.
It is recommended that applicants have a competition record for at least 12 months.
Applicants must submit three (3) unedited competition videos and one (1) short horsemanship video (tacking, flatting/warm-up routine)
Applicants must provide three (3) references from a trainer, employer, barn manager, etc.
The application includes several written responses relating to goals, commitment to a professional track in the industry, and financial need, among other topics.
Applicants must be able to commit to a full six-month placement and meet RTTT conduct/safety requirements.
ABOUT ROAD TO THE TOP
Road to the Top is a charitable organization dedicated to developing the next generation of American show jumping champions through mentorship, training, and opportunity.
Sissy Wickes, Executive Director
610-308-9940 • sissy.wickes@roadtttop.org
Road to the Top Inc is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax ID number 92-3382767) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.