Jackson Thompson ’13 joined NCSSM as Head Athletic Trainer and as an instructor for our Durham campus in August 2023. A native of Henderson, NC, and an NCSSM alumnus, he earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science with a concentration in athletic training from the University of North Carolina. He holds a master’s degree in athletic training from Illinois State University. Prior to NCSSM, he served as an assistant athletic trainer for a multitude of sports at Elon University and Western Carolina University. He is passionate about building relationships, collaborating with faculty and staff, teaching students, and mentoring young professionals. He has previously served on committees for enhancing student-athlete resources such as nutrition and mental health, and currently serves on the young professionals committee for NCATA. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family. His hobbies include collecting vinyl albums, music and sports trivia, and spending time outdoors.

BA, EXSS – Athletic Training, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
MS, Kinesiology – Athletic Training, Illinois State University