AMY B. WATKINS
New Braunfels,TX
Summary
Bilingual operations professional and military veteran with extensive experience as a proven leader and manager. Expert in multitasking missions, projects, and programs while strategically placing personnel and resources to meet internal and external requirements. Possesses a comprehensive background in operations management, program analysis, logistics, strategic planning, process improvement, resource management, team building, problem-solving, and cross-functional leadership developed through domestic and global operations. Demonstrates the ability to blend vision, ingenuity, and strong business acumen with exceptional project management and leadership skills to enhance organizational effectiveness and drive expansion. Supported by a robust operational foundation and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Veteran Rehabilitation Specialist
Veteran Benefits Administration
San Antonio, TX
11.2025 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of veterans' rehabilitation needs and developed tailored plans.
- Facilitated communication between veterans and healthcare providers to streamline service delivery.
- Monitored progress on rehabilitation goals, documenting changes in patient status consistently.
- Coordinated referrals for additional services, ensuring veterans received holistic support as needed.
- Trained new staff on procedures related to veteran case management and benefits navigation.
- Maintained accurate records in compliance with VA guidelines to promote data integrity.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current with best practices in the field of rehabilitation.
Veteran Service Representative
Veterans Benefit Administration-San Juan Puerto Rico
San Juan, Puerto Rico
12.2021 - 11.2025
- Explain Benefit Programs: VSRs provide detailed information about various benefit programs available to veterans, including eligibility criteria and application processes.
- Adjudicate Claims: VSRs are responsible for reviewing and adjudicating claims for benefits, ensuring that all relevant evidence is considered and that decisions are made in accordance with VA regulations.
- Input Data: VSRs input data into the VA's systems to generate award and notification letters, informing veterans of the decisions made regarding their claims and the reasons for those decisions.
- Provide Advocacy: They act as advocates for veterans, helping them navigate the complexities of the benefits system and ensuring they receive the support they need.
- Conduct Interviews: They conduct interviews with veterans and their dependents to gather necessary information and assess their needs for benefits.
United Service Organization (USO) – Patriot Village, Incirlik, Turkey
Incirlik, Turkey
07.2017 - 07.2018
- Supported day-to-day operations at multiple USO centers to include coordination, implementation, and evaluation of creative and engaging USO programs services events and activities.
- Managed day-to-day center operational procedures, ensuring a cost-effective, safe, welcoming, clean, and well-maintained environment.
- Developed, improved, and maintained working relationships with US Military and local business community leadership to enhance awareness of the USO mission.
- Created and maintained a Standard Operating Procedure file that details local operational procedures and Center activities to enable prompt reporting, easy rotation, and follow-on.
Advanced Medical Support Assistant
Department of Veterans Affairs – San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX
05.2016 - 07.2017
- Duties: Duties: Performed day-to-day operations of the Compensation and Pension Office to include scheduling, record keeping, and data collection
- Screened patient requests for care and appointments to ensure they were managed appropriately and forwarded to the correct areas for disposition, if required
- Forged strategic relationships with leaders, colleagues, and specialized personnel to reinforce organizational objectives and synergized operations for all current and future projects.
- Provided direct administrative, technical, and clerical support to senior officials and functional area supervisors; identified problems using sound judgment and reported discrepancies and recommended corrective actions.
Education
Master of Science - Health Service Administration
Strayer University
Bachelor of Science - Social Science
Chapman University
Skills
- Software: Microsoft Office 365 Suite, SharePoint, EPIC
- Languages: English/Spanish
- Performance appraisals
- Psychosocial support
- Functional mobility training
- Care planning
Certification
A Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist is responsible for assessing individuals with disabilities to develop tailored employment plans and facilitate job placement. They collaborate with employers, healthcare providers, and community resources to ensure clients receive necessary training, accommodations, and support services for successful workforce integration. The role requires a blend of empathy, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of vocational challenges. C
- Assessing client needs and developing personalized rehabilitation plans.
- Collaborating with various stakeholders to facilitate job placement and retention.
- Providing career counseling, job training, and support services.
- Assisting in job placement and providing ongoing support as needed.
Languages
English/Spanish
Timeline
Veteran Rehabilitation Specialist
Veteran Benefits Administration
11.2025 - Current
Veteran Service Representative
Veterans Benefit Administration-San Juan Puerto Rico
12.2021 - 11.2025
United Service Organization (USO) – Patriot Village, Incirlik, Turkey
07.2017 - 07.2018
Advanced Medical Support Assistant
Department of Veterans Affairs – San Antonio, TX
05.2016 - 07.2017
Bachelor of Science - Social Science
Chapman University
Master of Science - Health Service Administration
Strayer University
OVERVIEW OF KEY CONTRIBUTIONS
- Project Management and Leadership – Created plans by adapting technology and best practices that aligned with the scope and vision of the organization to promote schedule, budget, and completion of the task.
- Operations Management – Served as Subject Matter Expert in operations/ project management for global operations. Demonstrated leadership in numerous multinational operations by creating support plans and personnel oversight. Possess a comprehensive background in strategic management and budget execution.
- Training and Development – Demonstrated the ability to assimilate current ideas, concepts, methods, and techniques. Dedicated and innovated team builder with a superior work ethic