September 10, 2025
The CAATE is proud to recognize the inspiring achievements and dedicated work of Corey Oshikoya, EdD, ATC!
How did you become involved with athletic training?
During my undergraduate education, I began volunteering and got accepted into the Athletic Training program. The ability to help athletes with their injuries and be involved with sports was a dream come true.
How did you become involved with the CAATE?
I was looking for another opportunity to volunteer in our profession. A current volunteer saw a call for volunteers and thought a particular committee would be a great fit for me. They encouraged me to apply, I did, and I was selected. The experience has been amazing.
What are some highlights from your athletic training career?
The obvious highlights are the big games I have had the pleasure of being involved in. From the NFL Super Bowl and Pro Bowls, to a trip with a men's basketball team to the NCAA Final four are great memories. But, the real highlights are the heartfelt thank yous and special moments with a graduated student-athlete who now understands what you did for them. Or the thanks from an athlete for just being there for them during a difficult rehab. Those moments are the real highlights of my career.
What is a highlight from your involvement with the CAATE?
Throughout my involvement with CAATE, I’ve found that the entire experience of contributing to committee work—both in person and via Zoom—has been a highlight. Witnessing the tangible impact of our efforts, from creation to sharing, has been truly rewarding. Additionally, the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded, intelligent individuals who broaden my perspective and expose me to diverse viewpoints has made volunteering with CAATE an exceptional and fulfilling experience.
In your words, how do you believe you are contributing to the CAATE mission?
(The CAATE mission: Serving as a catalyst to advance athletic training education through the promotion of quality improvement, innovation, diversity, and best practices for student recruitment.)
My committee appointments and the subsequent work I’ve undertaken directly align with CAATE’s mission. Collaborating with others to enhance diversity within committees and facilitate the recruitment of new volunteers has been a rewarding experience. Additionally, I’ve contributed to several new projects focused on quality improvement, innovation, and student recruitment. As both a new educator and a seasoned clinician, I bring a unique perspective that allows me to ask critical questions and present viewpoints aimed at advancing ideas, conversations, and projects.
Why do you believe students, faculty, and athletic trainers should become involved with the CAATE?
I strongly recommend that all athletic trainers, regardless of their practice setting or specific job roles, consider volunteering with the CAATE. While some ATs may perceive it as primarily for educators, gaining insights from diverse perspectives within our profession can significantly enhance athletic training education. Keep an eye out for upcoming volunteer opportunities or ask a colleague to help you identify chances to contribute your valuable experience, unique viewpoint, and expertise to CAATE. After all, informed decisions by CAATE rely on understanding the input from faculty, preceptors, employers, clinicians, and students regarding the educational process.
Can you share words of inspiration or a quote about your experience in athletic training or the CAATE?
"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it." — Halford E. Luccock. These words echo the diversity of thought, focus, expertise and perspective that I value in my interaction with other CAATE committee members, different committees and leadership. Advancing athletic training education with amazing orchestra.