My name is Stefani Nielsen. I am retired from working full-time in education, having dedicated 22 years to California School Districts. I am a proud mother of two adult children, a daughter in law and a grandparent to one. Academically, I hold a Master of Science in Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Communication, and a Certificate in Cultural Studies and Communication.

Before relocating to the islands, I lived in Arizona for two years working in HR for a school district. When I moved to Oʻahu and joined Work Now Hawaii, I’ve found deep fulfillment in serving the community we support.

I began working, with our mission in my heart, in July 2024 as a Job Coach, initially supporting participants at the Hub and in our AbilityOne program at Fort Shafter. Within three months, I transitioned to coaching and supervising at our state sites, including the Department of Health’s Disabilities Division in Pearl City, and eventually at the Foreign Trade Zone in Honolulu.

After three months, I was promoted to Administrative Coordinator, where I oversee compliance for both AbilityOne and non-AbilityOne programs. Just three months later, I advanced to my current role as Administrative Contract Coordinator. My responsibilities now include managing state contracts, overseeing job coaches, scheduling, conducting observations, reviews, IEEs, coordinating periodic schedules, hiring and processing employees and more.

At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to making a difference in people’s lives—regardless of whether they have a disability. I serve with passion and a sense of purpose rooted in my faith. I truly love what I do because it allows me to serve others while honoring my spiritual calling. Wherever there is a will, there is a way!