Steve Layer

From Student-Athlete to Healthcare Leader

Steve Layer grew up in Milan, Illinois, graduating from Rock Island High School in 1975 before attending Black Hawk College, where he graduated in 1977.

While at Black Hawk College, Steve was a pitcher for the baseball team under legendary coach Gene Henze from 1975 to 1977. He later attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale before being accepted into the physical therapy program at the University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School.

Steve earned his physical therapy degree in 1980 and received the Prestigious Professional Achievement Award at graduation. He began his career as a clinic manager in Sterling, Illinois, before co-founding Rock Valley Physical Therapy in Moline alongside Mark Levson in 1984.

Building a Nationally Recognized Practice

Under Steve’s leadership as CEO for more than three decades, Rock Valley Physical Therapy expanded into a multi-clinic, bi-state organization and became the third-largest privately owned physical therapy practice in the country.

Although leading a rapidly growing organization, Steve remained actively involved in patient care, specializing in evaluating and treating orthopedic patients while mentoring younger therapists and helping shape the company’s long-term vision.

In the early 1990s, Steve became one of only 50 physical therapists in the nation to earn board certification as an orthopedic certified specialist in physical therapy — a distinction reflecting both advanced expertise and dedication to the profession.

He also shared his knowledge with future healthcare professionals as a guest lecturer for many years at University of Iowa and St. Ambrose University physical therapy programs.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond his professional achievements, Steve has devoted significant time to community and educational leadership.

Over the years, he has served as president of the Commission of Education for St. Mary’s School in East Moline, president of the Alleman School Board, and a member of advisory and foundation boards supporting healthcare and education initiatives throughout the region.

Today, Steve continues his service as vice chair of the Black Hawk College Foundation Board and as a member of the Board of Directors for Youth Hope.

Steve credits Black Hawk College and the mentors he encountered there — including professors, teachers, and coaches — with helping shape both his personal and professional life, and he remains grateful for the role the college has played in strengthening the community.