Katrine Nielsen - Faculty and Staff Directory

Ms. Nielson joined the Equestrian Department in 2024, and is currently the Upper Campus Equestrian Director and Coach. Ms. Nielson grew up in Ventura and spent almost all of her free time riding horses in the Ojai area before leaving in 2005 to continue pursuing her riding and training goals with Olympian Amy Tryon for five years. In all, she has pursued a career as a horse trainer for over 30 years and has worked alongside some of the most recognized and respected riders for 3-day eventing, dressage, and jumpers throughout her career. In the midst of pursuing her riding and training career, Ms. Nielson completed a BA in History from the University of Puget Sound, and a MS in Secondary Education from Saint Joseph’s University with teaching certificates in CA, PA, and MO. In 2016, Ms. Nielson returned to Ventura and began her own training business where she heavily pursued a competitive riding schedule while bringing along young horses and riders. Ms. Nielson has strong family ties, is an animal lover, travel and outdoor enthusiast, and enjoys challenging herself in the kitchen.