We’re a small, mission-driven team with a passion for inclusion.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Carole Watilo
Since October 1995
As Founder of Progressive Employment Concepts, Carole has dedicated her career to creating meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities to live, work, and thrive in their communities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development and a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Special Education from Sacramento State University. Carole is a Certified ACRE-CE Trainer with extensive experience in Discovery and Customized Employment, Person-Centered Thinking, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, and Positive Behavior Support. Her leadership and commitment to inclusion continue to shape the mission and impact of PEC.
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rob Watilo
Joined February 1997
As Co-Founder and HR & Finance Director, Rob has helped guide Progressive Employment Concepts for more than 30 years with a clear vision, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to our mission. His strategic oversight and financial stewardship have been instrumental in ensuring the organization's long-term stability and growth. Through thoughtful planning and responsible management, Rob has helped build a strong foundation that allows PEC to continue expanding opportunities and making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
CO-FOUNDER AND HR & FINANCE DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR OF SERVICESMelanie Amoren
Joined May 2013
As Director of Services, Melanie combines her passion for training, mentorship, and capacity building with a commitment to person-centered supports. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work and is both a Certified ACRE-CE Trainer and Community Partner Work Incentives Counselor (CPWIC). Through her expertise in Discovery and Customized Employment and Person-Centered Thinking practices, Melanie helps strengthen our team and expand opportunities for the individuals we support.
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENTRachael Teefy
Joined October 2014
As Director of Development, Rachael focuses on growing PEC's impact through innovative services, fundraising, and community partnerships. She is passionate about self-directed services and creating opportunities that promote choice and inclusion. Rachael holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a minor in French and is a Certified Person-Centered Thinking Trainer and ACRE-CE Trainer with experience in Discovery and Customized Employment, Person-Centered Planning, and Independent Facilitation.
Kevin Rhoades
Joined February 2007
As Director of Quality Assurance, Kevin has been a valued member of the PEC team since 2007, serving in a variety of roles throughout the organization. Known for his attention to detail, strength with data and systems, and commitment to the people we support, he helps ensure our services remain high-quality and person-centered. Kevin holds a Bachelor's Degree and has experience and training in Discovery and Customized Employment and Person-Centered Thinking practices.
DIRECTOR OF QUALITY ASSURANCE
Kate Brittain
Joined January 2015
As HR & Project Coordinator, Kate brings experience across multiple roles at PEC, from direct support to management. She is organized, person-centered, and committed to supporting both the people we serve and our staff. Kate holds a Bachelor of Social Work, is a Certified ACRE-CE Trainer, and has training and experience in Discovery and Customized Employment and Person-Centered Thinking practices. Her experience allows her to bridge day-to-day operations with a strong commitment to quality and compassionate support across the organization.
HR & PROJECT COORDINATOR
NAVIGATION & CONSULTIVE SERVICES COORDINATORPam Haney Slinkard
Joined January 2017
As Navigation & Consultative Services Coordinator, Pam combines her passion for employment and systems change with deep expertise in benefits counseling. As a Community Partner Work Incentives Counselor (CPWIC), she helps individuals navigate complex benefits systems, understand the impact of work on benefits, and make informed decisions about their futures. Pam is also a Certified ACRE-CE Trainer, ACRE Board Member, and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology and a Master of Social Work.
DEVELOPMENT COORDINATORAmanda Pelaccio
Joined October 2014
As Development Coordinator, Amanda supports the growth and advancement of PEC through strategic initiatives, partnership building, and mission-driven development efforts. She brings a strong foundation in person-centered practices and workforce development, with experience in Discovery and Customized Employment, Person-Centered Planning, and Independent Facilitation. Amanda holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management and is a Certified Person-Centered Thinking Trainer and ACRE-CE Trainer.
Kristina Rubio
Joined April 2022
As Team Coordinator, Kristina brings experience as a Community Development Specialist at PEC and is passionate about supporting DSPs, building staff capacity, and providing excellent support to the people we serve. She is committed to ensuring high-quality, person-centered services that reflect individual needs and goals. Kristina has experience and training in Discovery and Customized Employment and Person-Centered Thinking practices.
TEAM COORDINATOR
David Medrano
Joined May 2021
As Team Coordinator, David brings experience as a Community Development Specialist at PEC and a strong person-centered approach to his work. He is known for taking the time to truly get to know the people he supports and their teams, and is passionate about helping individuals build the lives they want. David supports Community Development Specialists to do their best work by providing guidance, collaboration, and support. He has experience and training in Discovery and Customized Employment and Person-Centered Thinking practices.
TEAM COORDINATOR
TEAM COORDINATORCarol Carlson
Joined November 2014
As Team Coordinator, Carol brings a wealth of experience and a passion for person-centered support. With extensive experience in assisting individuals with complex needs, she is dedicated to providing high-quality services that promote meaningful outcomes. Her background as an Independent Facilitator has strengthened her commitment to individualized planning and support.Carol holds a Bachelor of Arts degree, has completed graduate studies in Special Education, and is a Pro-ACT Certified Trainer and an I-CAN certified assessor for Adaptive Skills. She has advanced training in Person-Centered Thinking and Discovery and Customized Employment.
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATORCathy Wilkins
Joined November 2010
Joined May 2007
Over nearly two decades, Cathy has overseen billing and administrative operations while helping create a culture of warmth, support, and connection for our team. Her dedication, organization, and welcoming presence help keep PEC running smoothly every day.