At Verbal Beginnings, growth isn’t just encouraged—it’s built into everything we do. From mentorship to meaningful career pathways, every team member has the opportunity to turn passion into progress. Erin Kitzmiller’s journey from an entry-level technician to Director of Program Operations is a powerful example of what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity.
How did you get to Verbal Beginnings? What was your first role here?
How did you get to Verbal Beginnings? What was your first role here?My first role here was an entry level technician (ABAT)! I met Verbal Beginnings at the MABA conference in Baltimore as I was wrapping up my Master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis. After graduating, moving from New Jersey to Maryland truly changed my professional trajectory and allowed me to seize the growth opportunities at Verbal Beginnings.
Tell us about what you do now!
I am currently the Director of Program Operations for our after school programs, Social Beginnings and The Bridge Program. I lead two teams, who do an exceptional job of providing quality, individualized ABA therapeutic services to children in the center following their discharge from early intervention services.
Verbal Beginnings early intervention programs focus heavily on kindergarten readiness. However, our team’s responsibility is to then guide clients through their school-aged years until they achieve independence through faded support models.
We get to be the finish line of services for a lot of VB clients and witnessing that success is a great tribute to the hard work of our clients, the families, VB staff and standards for quality care at Verbal Beginnings.
That’s quite a journey! How did Verbal Beginnings’ internal programs and values help you grow and advance as a professional?
Verbal Beginnings’ commitment to internal professional development allowed me to rapidly advance in my career. The company’s mission statement of “Changing Lives. One Child at a Time. One Professional at a Time” has shown to be a company-wide commitment since I began working here.
The company’s mentorship program, Everest, pairs motivated employees with established Verbal Beginnings professionals and leaders. Through this program, I received meaningful guidance, encouragement, and coaching towards achieving my aspirations. I believe this program was pivotal for me to understand the possibilities within the company and capabilities within myself.
What would you say is the number one way you have changed as a person as a result of your time with Verbal Beginnings?
Through Verbal Beginnings, I’ve cultivated a strong belief in my abilities, both professionally and personally. I now approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset, I find opportunity in each of life’s challenges and celebrate achievements big and small!
What would you say to other professionals who feel stalled or stumped with their own growth in the field? What advice would you give them?
Beyond simply “dressing for the job you want,” your work ethic should also embody this forward-thinking philosophy. Consider each day at your current position as an active application for your next role or opportunity, whether that’s an internal promotion, a lateral move into a new department, or a different career path.
Seek out ways to exercise and expand your skillset in new and innovative ways, even if they fall slightly outside your immediate job description. For instance, if you aspire to be in a leadership position, actively volunteer to lead small projects or mentor new team members. If you’re aiming for a creative role, look for opportunities to propose innovative solutions or contribute to brainstorming sessions.
By embracing this mindset, you’ll not only gain a deeper understanding of your strengths and developing capabilities, but you’ll also identify areas for further growth. This continuous self-assessment and practice will naturally move you closer to achieving your next career milestone, ensuring you are well-prepared and highly qualified for the opportunities you’re interested in.
Your company can’t recognize your strengths until you demonstrate them.
Seriously, what’s your favorite workday snack?
This is a difficult question, but if I had to choose, my favorite work snack would be chips. I enjoy any variety, at any time of day!
