Kristina McGrath, CPRP, ISSA CPT, PN Level 1

Kristina McGrath grew up in Wheaton, Illinois and attended Benet Academy and then went on to complete her undergraduate studies as a student-athlete at Indiana University where she earned her bachelor's degree in recreational sport management. She has been the Fitness Manager for the Naperville Park District since 2018. Prior to serving in that role, she was the Fitness Coordinator and a Soccer Coordinator for the District.

Q&A with Kristina

Describe your path to the parks and recreation industry. Did you start your career from the beginning in this industry? If not, how did you get here and why did you pursue a job in this field?
Initially out of college, I did not pursue a job in the parks and rec industry. I spent about 5 years as a business analyst and insurance broker prior to starting a family. After spending about 10 years as a stay-at-home mom, I was ready to get back into the work force and decided to pursue employment in a field that felt more aligned with my passion and lifestyle: fitness, sports, and recreation. I began working in personal training and coaching and loved helping people feel better about themselves!  I had been a volunteer soccer coach for the Naperville Park District for a few years, so when a part-time soccer coordinator role came available, I jumped at the opportunity to get into the field of my bachelor's degree - recreational sport management!

Please explain your specific role as succinctly as possible, including which department you work in.
My job as a fitness manager in the recreation department is to develop and implement fitness and wellness programs and services that align with the needs and interests of the community. I maintain an 8,000 sq. ft. fitness facility and ensure that our members have all the equipment and support they need to live a healthy lifestyle. In addition to maintaining our fitness facility, I also directly supervise more than 30 employees that span fitness programs, personal training, group exercise, membership, childcare and open gym.

What about your life in general makes this industry a good fit for you?
I have been active in health and wellness my entire life! I was an athlete all the way through college (Go Hoosiers!) and became a personal trainer and boot camp coach after college. Being an integral part of improving the quality of life of our community members is something that motivates me on a daily basis. Movement and exercise are just part of my daily life, and I find nothing more rewarding than sharing that passion with others.

If you would recommend working in parks and rec to others, what reasons would you give to support your recommendation?
Connecting with your community is rewarding. The things we offer as a park district are here to enhance the daily lives of our residents. The reward is seeing people taking advantage of the programs and services we offer and seeing how that not only improves their lives, but also the lives of their families.  

How would you explain to someone that parks and recreation is a great place for a career – regardless of their field of study, college degree or experience.
I have been lucky to find a career at the Naperville Park District that has allowed me to follow my love of fitness while still being able to be fully present as a parent to 3 extremely busy and over-scheduled children. I have the flexibility to work hard at my job, but also be present for my family. Also, the people that work in parks and recreation are typically a fun group of people to be around! We are a like-minded bunch who work together as a team to provide our community the best programs, facilities, and parks around! And we have a lot of fun along the way.