 Krysta of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio has a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management with a concentration in Wildlife Sciences, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the American Public University. Krysta is autistic and was unable to receive support or treatment until well into her adult years. While attempting to navigate a career path on her own, she realized she needed help.
Even though Krysta was employed, she applied for services at Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) in May 2022. She met with Taniya George-Olds, OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, who helped streamline the experience for Krysta by narrowing down services that could help and reviewing provider options. Taniya connected Krysta with Marianne Senvisky, CEO of Pathfinder Career Consulting, for assistance with resume writing, and interviewing practice.
Krysta and her team worked with OOD’s Division of Employer and Innovation Services (EIS) for career opportunities. They learned the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) was offering an apprenticeship opportunity as a Laboratory Technician Apprentice through the Ohio Vocational Apprentice Program (OVAP).
In the OVAP program, OOD participants secure paid apprenticeships with state agencies with the goal of permanent employment. Apprentices gain exposure in their chosen field, benefit from hands-on experience, and prepare for permanent positions in state government upon completing the apprenticeship.
Krysta learned about the application process and continued to fine-tune her resume. Krysta applied for the apprenticeship with ODA, was hired in September 2022, and relocated to Columbus.
As a laboratory technician, Krysta prepared samples for scientists, who then evaluated the concentration levels of a variety of toxins. Krysta expressed that she was excited to learn so much, assist the environment, and work with kind coworkers. Krysta’s apprenticeship was scheduled to end in June 2023.
In April 2023, Krysta was hired as a Laboratory Scientist 1 in Microbiology with the Ohio Department of Health. She assists higher-level scientists in the daily operations of the lab.
“Krysta is motivated, determined, and a real go-getter. She is passionate and has a strong background in the sciences,” said Taniya.
If you or somebody you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.
 If you or somebody you know has a disability and would like to work, reach out to OOD today. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors can help you explore your options. Visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536 to get started.
 In October 2013, the Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC) officially became the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disability (OOD) agency.
June 10, 2023 marks the 53rd anniversary of OOD. We honor our accomplishments, recognize who we have become, and rededicate ourselves to our future endeavors.
Governor James A. Rhodes signed House Bill 929, creating an independent seven-member commission to direct Ohio's Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program that included the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Bureau of Services for the Blind, and the Bureau of Disability Determination (formerly housed with VR), on June 10, 1970.
 Wednesday, June 21, 2023
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
OOD is pleased to host a webinar titled, "Retaining a Qualified Workforce - Part II: Acquiring a Disability." This is the second session in a two-part webinar series that will highlight best practices to retain a qualified workforce and ways to accommodate employees who acquire a disability through an injury or the onset of a medical condition.
If you have already registered, please complete the webinar registration form for employers. This will assist us in making sure we are sharing any updates, attachments, and resources before and after the event.
OOD's Worksite Accessibility Specialist, Julie Wood, OTR/L, ADAC, and Employer Services Manager, Michelle Rinehart, will host the webinar that begins at 10 a.m.
The webinar will take place as a Microsoft Teams Live Event. You can view the training through your web browser, and you do not need to have Microsoft Teams to participate. Join June 21 using this live event link.
OOD is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, and programs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws. To request an accommodation based on a disability, please contact Chris Glover by June 14, 2023.
The webinar has been approved for 1.00 HR (General) re-certification credit hour toward aPHR™, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, and SPHRi™ re-certification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) and 1.00 SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC) hour toward SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®. While this training is not pre-approved for CESP Continuing Education (CE) credit, it aligns with CESP content, and verification of attendance will be provided upon request. These credits are available for attendees of the live broadcast.
 Regular exercise often assists with managing the symptoms associated with some disabilities. Working out also has been linked to a feeling of overall well-being, increased self-esteem, and a connection to others. For individuals with limited mobility, finding the right exercises and gyms can be challenging. Read an article from KCRA on exercising with a chronic condition or disability for helpful pointers.
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