PODCAST
Why does Employment First matter to you?
I began my career at Perspectives Corporation as a Job Coach for the Transitional School Services program (a program I now oversee), and as a Behavior Specialist in Home-Based Therapy Services. Over the years, I’ve grown within the organization, serving as a Vocational Specialist, Job Developer, Manager of Youth Transitional Services, and now as Director of Employment Services for the last 5 years. Along the way, I’ve earned certifications such as CESP, ACRE through SME, Customized Employment ACRE through Griffin Hammis, completed the APSE Emerging Leaders program, and Person-Centered Thinking Facilitator/Advisor Training through the Sherlock Center.Employment First matters to me because it embodies the principle that people with disabilities should have the same access to competitive, integrated employment as anyone else. It’s not just about work—it’s about dignity, independence, and the ability to contribute to the community in a meaningful way. I’m committed to making sure that every person has the opportunity to succeed in the workplace and be valued for their abilities.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work in the disability employment field, and what do you hope to achieve in the coming years?
Employment isn’t just about a paycheck—it’s about independence, confidence, social connection, and a sense of purpose.Seeing the tangible impact that meaningful work can have on a person’s life. Employment isn’t just about a paycheck—it’s about independence, confidence, social connection, and a sense of purpose. Being able to help someone identify their strengths, overcome barriers, and succeed in a role that fits them is incredibly rewarding. Every success story, no matter how small, reinforces why this work matters and keeps me energized to keep innovating and advocating.
In the coming years, I hope to continue expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities by promoting inclusive hiring practices, strengthening partnerships with employers, and ensuring that job seekers receive the support and training they need to thrive. Ultimately, I want to contribute to a workforce where every person is valued for their abilities, and where “employment first” is not just a philosophy, but a reality.
What do you find most valuable about your APSE membership? What APSE training and resources have been most helpful to you in your professional development and why?
APSE membership provides access to a national network of professionals and experts dedicated to Employment First and inclusive workforce practices. The ability to connect with peers, share strategies, and learn from real-world success stories has been invaluable in improving outcomes for people with disabilities. I also value APSE’s commitment to advocacy, ethical standards, and policy guidance, which helps ensure that the work I do aligns with best practices and the broader goals of Employment First. The Emerging Leaders program and APSE’s workshops on Organizational Transformation and Supported Employment have been particularly helpful. These resources provide practical tools, step-by-step strategies, and mentorship opportunities that I can apply directly in my work. The structured training and ongoing professional support help me develop leadership skills, improve program outcomes, and better support both staff and individuals with disabilities.APSE offers more than just training: it’s a thriving community. How has your involvement with APSE and your state Chapter enriched your personal network beyond training?
APSE has provided more than training—it has connected me to a vibrant, national community committed to Employment First. My involvement with both APSE and my state chapter has significantly expanded my professional network, allowing me to collaborate with like-minded peers, share challenges, and celebrate successes. Through APSE, I’ve connected with fellow employment professionals, state agency representatives, and members of the business community who have provided insights, mentorship, and practical strategies that directly inform my work. These relationships have not only strengthened my professional expertise but have also helped me build partnerships that advance inclusive employment opportunities.Why does the concept of Employment First matter in the context of disability employment, and how do you believe it can positively impact the lives of individuals with disabilities and the broader community?
Employment First matters because it prioritizes competitive, integrated employment as the first and preferred option for individuals with disabilities. Rather than limiting opportunities to segregated or sheltered work, Employment First affirms that everyone has meaningful contributions to make in the workforce and deserves fair wages, career growth, and the dignity of a job well done. For individuals with disabilities, this approach can enhance independence, self-confidence, and social inclusion, while providing economic stability and a sense of purpose. For the broader community, Employment First fosters diverse, inclusive workplaces, strengthens local economies, and shifts societal perceptions—demonstrating that people with disabilities are valuable contributors whose talents enrich organizations and communities alike.Can you share an experience from your work that exemplifies your commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion?
One experience that exemplifies my commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion occurred while working with a local employer to develop a competitive employment opportunity for a young adult on the autism spectrum. I recognized that traditional hiring practices were unintentionally creating barriers, so I collaborated with the employer to adjust interview processes, provide workplace accommodations, and offer staff training on neurodiversity. As a result, the individual successfully secured and maintained meaningful employment, while the employer gained a highly skilled, valued employee and a better understanding of inclusive hiring practices. This experience reinforced my belief that equity and inclusion benefit both individuals and organizations, and that intentional strategies can remove barriers and create lasting impact.How do you believe public policy can be improved to better support the employment of people with disabilities, and what specific changes would you recommend to enhance inclusivity and opportunity in the workforce?
Expanding funding for job coaching, mentorship, and career development to provide tailored support. Strengthening anti-discrimination enforcement and workplace accessibility requirements. Encouraging data-driven accountability to measure employment outcomes and improve program effectiveness. These changes would increase economic independence, social inclusion, and community participation, while creating workplaces that truly value diversity and talent.To learn more about how Perspectives supports inclusive employment and helps adults with disabilities find meaningful work, visit our Employment Services page.