What does it mean to be a Physical Therapist Assistant in the military? In this episode of PT Pintcast, host Katie Sutton sits down with Staff Sergeant Joel Medina, a licensed PTA and Air Force medical professional, to explore what military PTAs do, the challenges of licensing, and how civilian clinicians can better understand and support their military colleagues.

Joel shares his journey through leadership, mentorship, and the unique opportunities that military PTAs have — from battlefield acupuncture to advanced readiness training. If you’re a PTA, PT, student, or healthcare leader, this episode will expand your view of the profession.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The day-to-day life of a military PTA in the Air Force
• Why only 8% of “4Js” are licensed PTAs — and how to change that
• Key differences between military and civilian PTAs
• Surprising roles: from wound care to battlefield acupuncture
• Joel’s advice for future PTAs and students entering the profession

00:00 – Intro & welcome

02:00 – Joel’s background and role in the Air Force

04:25 – Why Joel pursued PTA and his path to PT school

05:50 – A day in the life of a military PTA

08:30 – What PTAs do in military treatment facilities (MTFs)

10:45 – Leadership roles: NCIOC and beyond

12:40 – Mentorship and guidance in the PTA journey

15:30 – Challenges of licensing for military PTAs

17:00 – How civilian programs can support military PTAs

20:30 – Unique military responsibilities (wound care, casting, more)

22:15 – Battlefield Acupuncture explained

25:10 – Joel’s advice for PTA students and future clinicians

28:30 – Lessons learned from military and PTA leadership

30:45 – Final thoughts & closing