I began my second career in the field of vocational rehabilitation in 2010 when I graduated from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville with MS in Rehabilitation Counseling. I started in the St. Charles, MO Vocational Rehabilitation office in 2010 as a VR Counselor and over the last 10 years have worked my way up into the area of business services. My current role is Director, Business Services for MO VR. As a business service specialist my goal is to serve business, VR staff & Community Partners, and the candidates we serve at VR. Strategic connections is how we make this all happen. Creating relationships and learning of all opportunities available help to connect our job candidates to the career path they desire. I joined Missouri Rehabilitation Association (MRA) in 2010 and have been on the board of the eastern chapter in some capacity for the majority of the past 10 years. Being so new to this field, MRA was a great way to network with professionals in the field, learn of opportunities and resources available, as well as creating a great group of friends. I am in the perfect role for myself currently as it fits my love of connecting with people as well as assisting people with disabilities connect to careers that can empower and add to their quality of life.