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IGNITE is Here!

IGNITE is an exclusive event focused on helping physical therapy students confidently transition from the classroom to clinical practice. This weekend-long event offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers and seasoned PTs in outpatient orthopedics. Plus, with our specialty showcase and one-on-one interview or career conversation with a regional director, you will be one step closer to jumpstarting your profession.


With the success we have had at our Chicago IGNITE, we are taking it on the road and will be in St. Louis and Philadelphia!
Please check out the dates below for our upcoming IGNITES in 2026

Over the course of three days, students will participate in:

  • Full-Day NPTE Board Prep Course
    Led by PT Final Exam, this intensive session will cover test strategies, practice questions, and key content areas.
  • Recent Grads Q&A Panel Session
    Recent graduates will talk about their how they prepped for boards and what they advise as they started their careers.
  • Clinician Specialty Showcase
    Meet Athletico clinicians across various specialties—orthopedic, neuro, pelvic health, sports, vestibular, and more—to learn about career paths, mentorship, and advanced training opportunities.
  • On-Site Interviews
    For students interested in launching their careers with us, we offer the opportunity to participate in interviews for full-time positions during the event.

Event Details

  • IGNITE kicks off on Friday evenings and concludes on Sunday afternoons.
  • Athletico will provide meals throughout the weekend to all guests and provide accommodations for anyone traveling outside a 30 mile radius or claims hardship.

Who Should Attend?

  • DPT students throughout the country planning to take the NPTE between April and July 2026–Students looking for board prep support, career growth guidance, and clinical networking.

As an almost new grad about to start a new position with Athletico, this event was exactly what I needed. I got the chance to network with experienced clinicians, meet other students, gain resources for NPTE board prep and student loan repayment, and got to learn about Athletico’s specialty programs. This weekend event was very beneficial to my personal and professional development as well as being a very fun getaway to hangout with similar-minded people and hard working therapists! Would highly recommend to all students interested in OP orthopedics.

I came out of IGNITE with immense confidence in my next steps after PT school as well as provided me with invaluable tools I can use for NPTE preparation. Attending IGNITE was the best thing I could have done before finishing PT school!

IGNITE was an impactful event that allowed me to address the concerns that most graduating DPT students have with entry to the job market. I want to be able to confidently pass my boards and find a great landing spot that allows me to thrive as a therapist. The workshop in many ways addresses all those concerns with debt repayment, board preparation, and professional development. In addition, this event allowed me to network with my fellow DPT students from across the region.