Early Professionals Special Interest Group (EPSIG)
Mission:
To deliver value for early-career APTA North Carolina members by expanding opportunities for: networking, continuing education, professional development, and APTA resource utilization
Get Involved:
Membership into the APTA North Carolina Early Professionals SIG is free to any chapter member within their first five years of clinical practice.
History:
The EPSIG was created by Amanda Beaty, Anne Davenport, and Will Stokes in 2018 for all early-career Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants.
What is the EPSIG?
The EPSIG is a group within APTA North Carolina that is dedicated to delivering value for early-career APTA North Carolina members. The EPSIG is made up of a five leaders including a Chair, Director of Communications, Director of Membership, Director of Professional Development, and Director of Continuing Education.
You can join the EPSIG by reaching out to the current Chair via email. Benefits of joining the EPSIG include access to organized meet ups for new professionals by region, free member webinars specific to the early career professional, networking opportunities, and access to a comprehensive annual Mentorship Program. The EPSIG is a place for all early professionals to come together and get involved with APTA North Carolina.
Mentorship Program:
Interested in our Mentorship Program? Mentors and Mentees are needed. Check out our page dedicated to just that here! Applications for the 2026 Mentorship Program are open and close on November 15, 2025.
Current Leadership
Ruby Dixon
Chair
Lucas Saacks
Director of Communications
Brianna Taylor
Director of Membership
Dustyn Walton
Director of Professional Development
Hear from our leaders on their hopes for the EPSIG
Brianna Taylor - “Create unity between early professional NC PTs and PTAs to promote a sense of community and partnership in the APTA.”
Dustyn Walton - "To bring early professionals together, to create a supportive environment for collaboration and discussion, and to create resources that make the transition from student to clinician less stressful. "
Kyrsten Lee - "For there to be a space where new grads can learn from each other and continue to grow in the profession."
Lucas Sacks - "A stronger network of young PTs and PTAs across the state of NC"
Ruby Dixon - "To facilitate a stronger sense of community amongst early-career NC PTs and PTAs."
If these statements resonate with you, reach out to join us!
Join the EPSIG Now!
Email DixonRubyE@gmail.com to join.
Follow the EPSIG on Social Media to keep up with current events!
Upcoming Events
Advanced Proficiencies Webinar, September 11, 2025
All physical therapy assistant students and early professionals are encouraged to join APTA North Carolina for a virtual information session on the Advanced Proficiency Pathway (APP). This session will feature a representative from APTA who will provide a detailed overview of the APP application process, the areas of specialization available, and the ways in which completing this pathway can enhance professional growth and career opportunities. Attendees will leave with valuable information to help determine whether the APP is the right next step in their professional journey.
Virtual Residency/Fellowship Fair, September 18, 2025
APTA North Carolina invites all physical therapy students and early professionals to attend a virtual Residency and Fellowship Fair designed to provide an in-depth overview of advanced post-professional training opportunities in physical therapy. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the benefits of residency and fellowship training, the application process, and how these pathways can advance their careers. The event will also feature breakout sessions where attendees may engage directly with Program Directors from North Carolina, offering a unique opportunity to ask questions and explore specific programs of interest.
FAQ's
Who can Join the EPSIG?
PT's and PTA's within their first five years of clinical practice.
Do you have to be an APTA North Carolina member to join?
How do I join the EPSIG?
What are some of the benefits of joining the EPSIG?
What is the Mentorship Program?
How can I get involved with the EPSIG?