In November 2002, Steven Trotter clipped into a spin bike at Gold’s Gym in Asheboro, NC, not just to lead a class, but to embark on a journey that would redefine his professional purpose and career trajectory. What began as a senior project in high school evolved into a transformative path within the health, fitness, and wellness industry. As a first-generation college student, Steven initially entered the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with aspirations of becoming a Doctor of Pharmacy. However, a serendipitous encounter during freshman orientation with current Director, Center for Wellness Promotion, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Sophia Marshall. Sophia offered him a position as a group fitness instructor, an opportunity that marked a pivotal turning point in his life.
The meeting and the role sparked a passion that profoundly changed his academic and professional trajectory. Immersed in the world of fitness, Steven served as a group fitness instructor, personal trainer, and eventually, fitness manager during his undergraduate years at UNC Charlotte. Witnessing the profound impact of fitness on individual wellbeing, he shifted his major from pre-pharmacy to exercise science, embracing a career that aligned perfectly with his personal mission: to take people to places they couldn’t reach on their own.
From campus to consulting: A journey of growth
After earning his degree in Exercise Science, Steven pursued a Master of Science in Health and Physical Education, further cementing his foundation in the field of campus recreation (NIRSA’s founder Dr. William Wasson also spent part of his career as a physiology of exercise teacher and earned his master’s degree in physical education). Over the years, he managed fitness and wellness programs at Wingate, Virginia Tech, and UNC Wilmington. But Steven’s passion for education extended beyond the rec center walls; he has been an influential adjunct faculty member since 2008, teaching at institutions like Virginia Tech, New River Community College, and UNC Wilmington. He’s among the NIRSA members who wear both practitioner and faculty hats. His courses have covered a wide range of subjects, from exercise leadership and science to personal health & wellness and health behavior change.
In 2010, Steven began consulting alongside his full-time roles, a venture that became so successful that by early 2017, he transitioned to consulting full-time, founding Globetrotter Wellness Solutions, LLC. That same year, he joined Coastal Carolina Community College as an adjunct faculty member, a position he continues to hold to this day. His expertise was soon recognized at a broader level, leading to an opportunity to rewrite Coastal Carolina Community College’s Fitness Facility Management class curriculum—another pivotal moment in his career.
A new chapter in wellbeing leadership
In 2019, Steven embraced the significant challenge of rebuilding the wellbeing and fitness program at East Carolina University, where he currently serves as the Director of Well-Being. This role in conjunction with his duties at Globetrotter Wellness Solutions and his teaching position at Coastal Carolina Community College showcases Steven’s extraordinary capacity to lead efficiently, with each role contributing to his overarching mission of enhancing health and fitness education and practice.
A recognized leader in fitness facility management
In March of 2022, Steven’s expertise was recognized when an industry colleague referred him to the prestigious physical activity publisher Human Kinetics for a project focused on managing fitness facilities in the post-COVID era. Understanding the importance of collaboration in such an endeavor, Steven reached out to owner and founder of Stevenson Fitness Chris Stevenson, a respected friend and colleague, to co-author the proposal. Their combined insight and expertise won them the contract, and by September 2022, the rigorous process of researching, writing, and interviewing began.
Over the next year, Steven and Chris dedicated themselves to crafting a comprehensive guide that addressed the evolving challenges and opportunities in managing fitness facilities. Their collaboration went beyond mere co-authorship; it was a partnership that pooled their vast experiences and visions for the future of fitness management. After a year of diligent work, the manuscript was completed and moved into editing and, eventually, printing.
In October 2024, Fitness Facility Management was published, quickly becoming an essential resource on the shelves of industry professionals. The book not only encapsulates the nuanced strategies needed for contemporary fitness facility management but also serves as a testament to their ongoing commitment to elevating industry standards and enhancing professional development.
Engagement and empowerment at the 2024 Athletic Business Show
As respected speakers at the Athletic Business Show each year, Steven and Chris came together to lead the pre-conference workshop “Building Rock Star Teams,” where they focused on recruiting, retaining, and engaging recreation and fitness center team members. Almost 60 fitness professionals from across industry specialties engaged in deep discussions, exchanged innovative ideas, and enhanced their practical knowledge.
Steven also led a breakout session on “The Business of Group Training” to more than 90 participants. Chris and his business partner, Marisa Hoff, led multiple breakout sessions on programming and the member experience. Chris & Steven hosted a reception to celebrate their launch of Fitness Facility Management with 80 of their close industry colleagues and friends while at the 2024 NIRSA Facilities Institute, presented by Mondo and in partnership with the AB Show in New Orleans.
Continued passion and future endeavors
Steven & Chris have a relentless passion for helping others, so they knew the journey wouldn’t stop at the book. Steven & Chris and their teams at Globetrotter Wellness Solutions and The Empower Group Firm launched FitnessFacilityManagement.com, an online platform dedicated to continuous professional development. This site extends the reach of their teachings beyond the pages of their book to the needs of today’s students, fitness managers, and professionals. The platform is designed to educate and empower communities by providing them with ongoing support throughout their career journeys.
Special offer: Elevate your fitness facility management
Grab your copy of “Fitness Facility Management” today and transform how you manage and operate fitness facilities. This essential resource is packed with innovative strategies and practical advice tailored to contemporary challenges in fitness facility management.
Until February 17, NIRSA members can get 20% off your purchase when you use the promo code HKSAVE20G.
Whether you’re looking to inspire your team, enhance your operational efficiency, or implement cutting-edge practices, this book is an invaluable addition to your professional library.
About Steven Trotter
Steven A. Trotter, MS, is a globally recognized fitness and wellness consultant, the Director of Well-Being at East Carolina University, and an Adjunct Professor at Coastal Carolina Community College. As the founder of Globetrotter Wellness Solutions, LLC, Steven has been instrumental in shaping fitness programs and curricula across various educational institutions. His work, notably including the co-authorship of “Fitness Facility Management,” demonstrates his dedication to elevating industry standards and empowering fitness professionals with innovative educational tools and leadership insights.
Steven first joined NIRSA in 2007 and has served on multiple Association committees. He was recently honored with a 2024 Treasured Pirate Award for Innovative Spirit from East Carolina University for his work in Campus Health and Recreation.
About Globetrotter Wellness Solutions, LLC
Globetrotter Wellness Solutions, LLC, is a consulting firm dedicated to advancing the health and wellness industry. Specializing in well-being and recreation, the firm provides strategic consulting, continuing education, and event management. It organizes significant events like the Southeast Collegiate Fitness Expo and the Collegiate Fitness Directors’ Summit, and hosts the online community, Collegiate Fitness Directors. Additionally, Globetrotter Wellness powers FitnessFacilityManagement.com, a resource hub that enhances the operational capabilities of fitness and wellness facilities worldwide. Committed to innovation and excellence, Globetrotter Wellness Solutions inspires and supports clients in delivering world-class services and creating memorable experiences for their communities. Globetrotter Wellness Solutions, LLC first joined NIRSA as an associate member of NIRSA in 2018.
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