From in-home technician to Center Director, Andrew Padilla’s journey at Verbal Beginnings is a story of growth, mentorship, and finding purpose through leadership. What started as a part-time role during his undergraduate studies quickly evolved into a fulfilling career helping others reach their potential—both in the field of ABA and within the VB community.
How did you get to Verbal Beginnings? What was your first role here?
I was finishing up my last year of undergrad when the pandemic hit and needed to find some part-time work. I’d always been interested in both health and education, and ABA seemed like the perfect intersection of the two. A friend of mine was an in-home tech and referred me to VB (shoutout to the referral bonus!). My first role was as an in-home tech in the Howard County area, which worked perfectly while I finished my degree.
Tell us about what you do now!
I recently became the Director of VB’s Annapolis Center! I spend my time helping our Operations and Clinical teams coordinate to make VB both the best place to work and the best place to receive ABA services. I’d say I have two niches: mentoring those who want to strengthen their leadership skills and coaching employees on managing stress and workload.
That’s quite a journey! How did Verbal Beginnings’ internal programs and values help you grow and advance as a professional?
I truly wouldn’t be here without the incredible mentorship I’ve received at Verbal Beginnings. Our Everest Program helps staff to identify a goal and pairs us with a mentor who can guide and help us chart a path forward. My “Everest” was to become a Center Director for VB. Mission accomplished!
My two mentors, Erin Kitzmiller and Kris Gochenour, had either gone through a similar career path or had the vantage point to give practical advice on how to achieve my goal. Their encouragement allowed me to shadow Center Directors, identify gaps in my knowledge through self-assessments, and most importantly, enroll in and complete my Master’s in Business Administration.
What would you say is the number one way you have changed as a person as a result of your time with Verbal Beginnings?
I feel more confident and equipped to lead. Thanks to wonderful supervisors and role models like Katie Lalonde, Erin Kitzmiller, and Emily Stampone, I’ve seen compassionate and effective leadership modeled day to day. They also took time to explain the “why” behind their decisions, which helped me build my own leadership toolkit. I’m grateful for each of them and hope to offer similar mentorship to the next generation of leaders at VB!
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?
Talk to your supervisor about your goals or what you hope to accomplish. They can help you understand where you still need to grow or connect you with someone who can offer specific guidance. All supervisors at VB are trained in the importance of mentorship, and I know they want you to succeed.
Seriously, what’s your favorite workday snack?
A protein bar and a diet coke lol… Maybe a coconut water if I am having a down day.
