The Growing Influence of Women in P&O, and Four Who Are Leading the Way

March is International Women’s Month, and it’s a perfect time to highlight how women have become an essential and growing force in the Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) profession. They are in many ways shaping the future of P&O.

In 2014, women made up only 20% of certified P&O practitioners. Today, they are estimated to account for between 35 and 40%, and many Master’s of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics (MSPO) programs now report that 50% to 60% of their graduating classes are women. The future outlook is bright for them as well, as The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth rate, which is "much faster than average" for all occupations. That, coupled with an anticipated shortage of certified providers (estimated between 4.2% and 9.5% by 2030) and rapid growth in the global P&O market, fueled by an aging population and advancements in 3D printing and AI-driven bionics, ensures high job security for new female entrants.

While it’s still relatively uncommon to see practices largely run by women, I have the privilege of working alongside four of the very best P&O practitioners I’ve encountered – all women – who display that leadership and promise every day. They bring a unique energy to patient care, exemplifying the shift toward "soft skills" like patient empathy and communication which some experts suggest are becoming central to modern rehabilitation models. They are also grounded in deep expertise, with advanced training that includes Master’s degrees from Hartford, and diverse clinical and professional experiences.

What truly sets them apart, though, is their shared commitment to delivering patient-focused,

highly personalized care. They approach every case not just as a condition to treat, but as a

person to support, and that mindset drives better outcomes.

Braylan Wenzel’s (MSPO/CPO) growth as a clinician is a great example of that impact. With seven years of professional P&O experience, she has developed expertise across all amputation levels and contemporary prosthetic designs. She also leads our scoliosis management program, where her innovative thinking has led to new, effective design approaches for her patients. She treats patients with firm, compassionate guidance, and they appreciate her for it. It's clear she found her calling in a field where she can truly change lives.

Tara Jackson’s (MSPO/CPO) path reflects a similar evolution. After initially planning to become a physical therapist, she found her fit in P&O and has since built six years of experience across both corporate and private practice settings. Today, she plays a key role in developing provider relationships and expanding our care programs. Her passion for problem-solving in service of others is central to how she practices.

Gracie Rink brings an especially meaningful perspective as both a provider and a former

orthotic patient, using her experience to connect with patients while supporting telehealth,

education, outcomes tracking, and day-to-day clinical care with a strong focus on growth

and learning.

And Lawren Young rounds out this remarkable team by ensuring every aspect of the patient

experience runs smoothly, drawing from her diverse background in service-oriented roles to

manage scheduling, insurance coordination, compliance, and front office operations with a

constant focus on patient needs.

Together, this group represents what’s possible when skilled, compassionate women lead in

P&O, bringing expertise, heart, and a commitment to better care every single day. They are not only incredibly important to this practice and its patients, they are living proof of the powerful role of women in today’s and tomorrow’s P&O.