Roma Powis, Account Representative
The DRS Corporate Connections Account Representative is a regional employment resource providing services to Tennessee businesses. This single point of contact will assist employers in recruiting and retaining qualified employees. Additional services to companies include training, technical assistance, and consultation. Account Representatives specialize in working with Tennessee employers to promote employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The services are funded by the TN Division of Rehabilitation Services and administered by The University of Tennessee.
Roma graduated from the University of Oregon with a B.S. in Education and Masters course work in Special Education and Vocational Evaluation. Her career of 30 years has included transition services and work experience program management, resource development, and employer education including presentations at conferences. She has taught in secondary, community college and university levels. Her background in teacher education and vocational program development has given hundreds of people with disabilities and barriers the experience, the training, the skills, the support and the opportunity to become employed. Roma developed and directed the demonstration program called T.A.P.S. for the Epilepsy Foundation of America, in Portland , Oregon . She worked closely with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation in that program as well as when she directed Projects With Industry (PWI) for Goodwill Industries.
Roma has written many grants, provided employer education, staff development, and technical assistance both locally and state wide. She has owned several businesses, was a real estate broker, and educator. Roma is interested in innovative approaches and her marketing experience enables her to expand the options and opportunities for people to become employed within their communities. She is a member of the Maury Alliance, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce and is involved professional organizations and activities to enhance employers' knowledge and comfort when hiring persons with disabilities.
Roma Powis