EMPLOYMENT CONSULTANT
Andrew approaches job development with the passion that comes from years of direct experience in the field. As a direct service provider and job developer for those with developmental disabilities, he has customized over 50 supported employment positions in the Puget Sound region -- across a wide variety of industries and companies in both the public and private sectors.
He brings his expertise in the area of discovery, job development, job design, and work site fading strategies to consultants in a day-long training geared towards improving the skills and outcomes for job developers and coaches in the region.
My name is Brandon, and I am a graduate of Central Washington University with a BA in Arts. I was drawn to this work for numerous reasons, but by far the biggest is the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people every day, and support those most in need. What is most rewarding for me is finding the right job match for someone, and seeing their passion and drive bloom in the work they are doing, while setting up long-term support for lifelong learning and career advancement.
Hello! My name is Katie Dowers and I am the South King County Program Manager here at Supported Solution. I love my job because it allows me to work with a wide variety of individuals. I am a self described "people person", and I love working with the businesses and clients that I get to interact with on a daily basis. Seeing a client grow more confident in their skills and abilities is one of the most rewarding aspects of this job. Each individual that we work with is so different and unique, and it is such a joy seeing them learn more about themselves and the work they can do.
My passion for people has always been at the forefront of what I do. I have extensive experience working in customer-facing roles for over 7 years. Throughout my career, I have honed my communication skills and developed a deep understanding of the importance of providing empathy and kindness. Focusing my career path around people has helped me to connect with others from all walks of life, I have become adept at identifying and addressing the unique needs of each individual. My ability to empathize with others and provide thoughtful guidance has molded me into a resource for those who are underrepresented in our community. I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those around me and will forever be a huge advocate for those within marginalized communities.
Hello my name is Carrington and I Care-a-ton, about people in general but the disabled and vulnerable population have my heart. Having a sister on the spectrum and my time as a CNA has shown me that the disabled population is unfairly judged and under catered to and I have made it my mission to remove the stigma and fill the gap. Working at supported solution has allowed me to fulfill that mission and make a real difference, while getting to know a variety of amazing people.
While my own career path has been a winding one, service to others is the common thread. I am a passionate advocate for our clients and believe the value they offer an employer is always unique.
My favorite thing about this work is seeing individuals gain confidence as they increase their independence on the job, and build social relationships through workplace inclusion.
I am a recent Iranian immigrant to the US and now live in Tacoma with my husband and our two dogs. In my early 20s, I moved to Armenia to study Russian language and literature (Russian Philology) at Yerevan State University as well as Choreography and Ballet Master at Yerevan Choreographic College. I continue to teach ballet and dance in my free time in Tacoma. During my time in Armenia, I found my calling in helping others. I was actively involved with helping children with special needs and families with low incomes through the Baha’i Community. My primary focus was tutoring and assisting students with their math, art, and English lessons. I also previously worked with military families at Joint Base Lewis-McChord helping newcomers enter the job market in the South Sound area.
Hello my name is Kyra Strom. I have always had a passion for helping people in need. Supported Solution works directly within the community assisting the people who are often overlooked, which is one of the reasons why I love the work we do. We can be champions for people with disabilities to encourage them and help them achieve their goals. Everyone deserves the freedom of employment, some just do not have all the tools to get there. I am grateful to work as an employment consultant providing those tools to each client so they can be the most successful in their career and future.
Hi, Annmarie here! I was born and raised in southern Colorado and moved to Washington almost a decade ago. My husband and kids are my biggest supporters, I love spending my free time with them. Using my previous experience as a direct support staff, I find ease in communicating and connecting with individuals from all walks of life. I like to say diversity is what makes this world go round. As an employment consultant, I’m excited to see what the future holds. I look forward to using my skills, knowledge, and compassion to advocate for those who need it the most.
Hello, my name is Alex Olobia, I grew up playing sports my whole life and was fortunate enough to have mentors who directed me towards community engagement at a young age. I'm forever grateful as I found a passion for connecting with people and an excitement for helping my community directly. I began my professional career in non-profit organizations and have been drawn to the work that is helpful to those of all backgrounds. I believe a tremendous amount of great work is done behind the scenes and amongst places that aren't often thought of in our society and I'm lucky to be able to help drive that great work within a supportive organization. Seeing the night and day difference in people's lives that need an extra hand or resource has been fulfilling and I'm looking forward to more bonds being formed and growth.