We Are Who We Staff: From Classrooms to Career Matchmakers
As we wrap up Autism Awareness Month, we’re taking a moment to look inward at the heartbeat of our organization. At iDEAL Hire, our mantra is simple: “We Are Who We Staff.” We believe that to find the best talent for our partners, we need to deeply understand the work being done on the ground. That is why so many members of our team don’t come from just backgrounds in recruitment, they come from the world of clinical & school-based therapy.
Today, we’re sitting down with three of our team members: Renee Miller (BCBA), Victoria Kennedy (RBT), and Melissa Ulin (RBT), to discuss how their time as behavioral health professionals shaped their perspective on neurodiversity and how those clinical roots allow them to advocate for both our clients and our candidates.
1. What originally drew you to the field of Behavior?
Renee:
“I’ve always liked helping people. I’m naturally motivated by supporting others and being part of their growth and progress.”
Victoria:
“Having the ability to understand communication on a different level. All behavior is communication, whether verbal or non-verbal. I learned to connect with individuals on their worldview and make an impact on what makes life more fulfilling for them.”
Melissa:
“Growing up with my own learning disabilities, I know what it feels like to learn differently and how much of a game-changer it can be when you receive supports. Helping students regulate their emotions was healing for me, too. I loved how my students kept me on my toes and surprised me every single day.”
2. Can you describe a moment where you saw a child “click” with a new skill?
Renee:
“When they say their first word at age 3 or 10, or take their first steps at age 7. You can immediately see the shift in their confidence and independence. It’s incredibly meaningful because those skills impact every part of their daily life.”
Victoria:
“I had a non-verbal client I worked with on functional communication for over a year. One day I greeted him, and he responded ‘Hi’ during an activity. My heart felt so full, and his parents were so proud of that positive stride.”
Melissa:
“Early in my career, I was blowing bubbles with a child and prompting ‘Ready, set, go’ After a few rounds, he suddenly blurted out ‘Go!’ I didn’t realize how big that moment was until I looked at his mom; she was tearing up because that was his very first word. I felt honored to be part of that.”
3. How has your time in the field changed your understanding of neurodiversity?
Renee:
“It reinforced for me that ‘if they’re not learning the way we teach, we should teach the way they learn.’“
Victoria:
“Neurodiversity doesn’t mean there are limits. There is so much creativity in the fact that we are not all meant to think the same, and that is beautiful.”
Melissa:
“One of the biggest shifts was realizing how much inclusion and accommodations benefit everyone. It’s not about ‘fixing’ anything; it’s about recognizing that brains work differently, and those differences deserve respect and room to shine.”
4. “We Are Who We Staff.” How does your behavioral background help you identify the best talent?
Renee:
“My background as a BCBA allows me to look beyond resumes because I’ve lived the day-to-day realities of these roles. I’ve walked in their shoes, so I understand the challenges and what actually sets someone up for success.”
Victoria:
“As a Talent Consultant, my goal is to connect individuals with passion. Whether it’s an RBT wanting to learn about educational settings or a SPED teacher wanting to make an impact, I connect with their goals to find what fits best into their lives.”
Melissa:
“I know the pressure, the pace, and the heart behind the work. When a school or facility tells me what they need, I understand it on a real level. That shared goal makes it easy to build trust and work together.”
5. For families just starting their journey, what do you want them to know about the people working with their children?
Renee:
“The people working with your children truly care. They’re invested in each child’s progress, and even the small moments of growth matter to them.”
Victoria:
“This journey can feel overwhelming at first, but you’re not alone. The people working with your child are there to guide, support, and celebrate every step of the way!”
Melissa:
“The work is intentional; there is thought and data behind each step. But remember: you know your child best. When you speak up and share what you’re seeing, it helps everyone stay aligned.”
The iDEAL Difference
At the end of the day, our clinical experience is what allows us to bridge the gap between “hiring” and “helping.” We aren’t just filling seats; we are placing dedicated professionals into roles where they can change lives, because we’ve been there ourselves.
Looking for the right fit for your team or your career? Explore our jobs or connect with our experts today.
