I am a Workforce Professional, working in workforce development for over 20 years. I am in Region 12 and have been for over 16 years. I have managed a number of our workforce programs/positions to include; Welfare Transition, WIA (WIOA), SNAP, Center Manager and Special Projects (Florida Trade Grant and NEG);. I am a retired NAVY veteran and obtained my Master Trainer Credential in the US Navy. My current role as Veteran Program Manager has been the top highlight. It has been an honor leading such a dedicated group of Veterans, who hold the positions of Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists and Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER). This passionate team serves our local veterans and assists them with counseling and advocating, connecting businesses to our veterans looking for employment here in Central Florida. When I was medically retired from the US Navy, I never thought that I would be impacting veterans and making such a difference in their lives! A few of my recognitions: 2018 Orlando Business Journal’s Veterans of Influence Honoree, 2015 Jodi Spiegel Enhancement of Customer Service Award National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP), 2014 Workforce Champions; Workforce Professional Development Summit (Region 12), 2013 The National Association of Professional Women (NAPW), Certified National Workforce Professional-National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP)Associate Member of the Orlando’s Mayors Veteran Advisory Council (MVAC). I love who we are, what we represent and what we do for our community. My favorite thing to do is to laugh. If you pass by me you will know me because my second favorite thing to do is to smile.