Marla Williams, Director
P: (817) 775-5006
The University of Texas at Arlington | BA Degree in Communications
Cornell University | Certified Work Incentive Practitioner
The University of North Texas | UNT Wise Certifications: Job Placement, Supported Employment, Job Skills Training, and Work Experience
Marla Williams has been working with individuals seeking employment for over 10 years as part of her job duties as a Special Education teacher through the Texas Public School System. Through that experience, as a Transition Specialist, she worked closely with Texas Workforce Commission to assist students with vocational opportunities. She also facilitated the Community Based Instruction Program at the high school level and assisted students with finding paid employment.
Mrs. Williams realized through educational experience, that she had a unique insight as to how to assist those with disabilities to obtain paid, successful employment. Working at a public school, she had the opportunity to work with students who presented with a wide variety of disabilities over her tenure. Although she found success at the high school level, she decided to focus her job placement efforts full-time and founded Strategic Employment Solutions.
Michell Lutes, Assistant Director
Eastern New Mexico University | BS Degree in Education
P: (817) 778-0242
University of North Texas | UNT Wise Certifications: Job Placement Specialist, Job Skills Training, and Work Experience
Michell Lutes has been working with individuals seeking employment for over 15 years as part of her job duties in Special Education in the Texas Public School System. She facilitated Community Based Instruction Programs and developed appropriate work sites, provided supports, and recommended accommodations at work sites for students. The results of her efforts and the students’s efforts were successful, sustainable employment outcomes. Ms. Lutes has a thorough knowledge of a variety of disabilities and how they can impact an individuals in the workplace. She has demonstrated over the years the ability to build relationships with an individuals, understand their needs, and develop strategies for successful employment outcomes.
Karina Balderas, Lead Job Skills Trainer
P: (682) 332-8943
University of North Texas | UNT Wise Certifications: Job Placement Specialist, Job Skills Training, and Work Experience
Karina Balderas has 5 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities in an educational setting. She is also a parent to an adult student who has a disability. Her personal and professional experience gives her a unique understanding of the importance of differentiated instruction which is essential when working with individuals with disabilities. Karina’s experience working in the Texas Public School System has given her a firm foundation in creating job analyses, and task analyses, facilitating natural support at job sites, and promoting independence.