LINDA KOCJAN
DeKalb
Summary
Strategic program leader with expertise in training facilitation, accessibility initiatives, workforce collaboration, and cross-functional coordination. Demonstrated success designing structured learning experiences, managing complex caseloads and programs, and partnering with stakeholders to improve engagement and outcomes. Recognized for organizational strength, inclusive leadership, and a solutions-focused approach.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Workplace Accommodations Specialist (Remote)
Aflac
08.2025 - 02.2026
- Conducted comprehensive workplace accommodation assessments, reviewing medical, vocational, and functional documentation
- Facilitated the interactive process between employees and employers to support timely, compliant accommodation determinations
- Interpreted medical terminology and functional limitations to evaluate reasonable accommodation options
- Utilized Salesforce (Claims Vision) case management system to document assessments, maintain audit-ready records, and track workflow and compliance metrics
- Managed confidential information and high-volume caseloads in a deadline-driven environment
- Maintained detailed, compliant documentation aligned with departmental procedures and regulatory standards
- Served as a subject matter resource to internal and external partners regarding ADA and workplace accommodation practices
Assistant Director of ADA Accommodations and Special Programs
Northern Illinois University
07.2021 - 08.2025
- Perform and oversee all aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) interactive process to facilitate workplace accommodation provision and accessibility for a state university.
- Manage all accessibility and barrier requests and maintain the database and records for compliance.
- Designed and delivered training sessions for faculty and staff on accessibility, compliance, and inclusive learning practices.
- Oversee the management of the departmental budget and secure procurement of needed items to provide accommodations.
- Provide consultation and serve as a liaison to campus stakeholders, commissions and visitors/guests regarding disability issues, ADA regulations and accessibility barriers.
- Maintain ADA Coordinator Training Certification Program Credentials (ADACTCP) and serve as the resident expert on campus for ADA issues concerning staff, visitors and guests of the university.
- Assist with coordination of interpreting and closed captioning services and related billing for employees, applicants and guests of the university.
Employer Services and Transition Specialist
Kishwaukee College/ Dekalb Workforce Development Office
10.2018 - 07.2021
- Serve as liaison and resource to local employers and provide, provide and promote recruiting and business services to foster successful direct employment relationships.
- Develop and implement customized vocational and on-the-job training plans, provide confidential case management services and maintain a case load of 50+ job placement, and provide training to customers under Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA) grant services.
- Market the DeKalb Workforce Development Office and adult WIOA services directly to employers and potential participants for continued program growth and to reach Workforce Investment programmatic objectives.
- Oversee planning, coordination and marketing of job fairs, employer recruiting events and community workshops for the DeKalb Workforce Development office and partnering entities.
Vocational Program Manager/ QIDP
Opportunity House Inc.
12.2007 - 10.2018
- Managed all department and program operations including budgeting, staff supervision, direct client case management, accessibility consult, and billing and administrative reporting for a vocational rehabilitation program.
- Facilitated job placement, retention and follow up activities for adults with varying disabilities and developed customized vocational plans.
- Adhered to state regulations and funding requirements established by the Department of Rehabilitation Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services, as well as Division of Developmental disabilities, and insure departmental compliance for all documentation and services provided.
- Provided resources, consultation and funding resources to local community employers and families that have needs relating to disability accommodation and employment.
Career Resources Specialist
First Institute
08.2005 - 12.2007
- Assisted with employment placement related services including resume development, employment skills training and workshop facilitation.
- Provided referrals for partnering services to customers utilizing the Illinois WorkNet Center (formerly IETC).
- Maintained Career Resources Center computer lab, related equipment, media library and adaptive work station for use for all center patrons.
- Facilitated pre-employment testing and other assessments for program providers and local employers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Public Health, Community Health Promotion
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, Illinois05-2006
Professional Program - Leadership Academy
Sycamore Chamber of Commerce
Sycamore, Illinois01-2019
Skills
- Customer relations
- Expert problem solving
- Analytical thinking
- Documentation management
- Coaching and mentoring
- Compliance monitoring
- Vendor relations
- Team performance improvement
- Problem-solving abilities
- Relationship building
- Project planning
- Decision-making
Certification
- ADA Coordinator Training Certification Program, University of Missouri Columbia Certified ADA Case Manager Received March 1, 2023 (Valid until March 2027)
- Commission for Case Manager Certification Certified Case Manager/ CCM, Received August 17, 2015
Timeline
Workplace Accommodations Specialist (Remote)
Aflac
08.2025 - 02.2026
Assistant Director of ADA Accommodations and Special Programs
Northern Illinois University
07.2021 - 08.2025
Employer Services and Transition Specialist
Kishwaukee College/ Dekalb Workforce Development Office
10.2018 - 07.2021
Vocational Program Manager/ QIDP
Opportunity House Inc.
12.2007 - 10.2018
Career Resources Specialist
First Institute
08.2005 - 12.2007
Bachelor of Science - Public Health, Community Health Promotion
Northern Illinois University
Professional Program - Leadership Academy
Sycamore Chamber of Commerce
Community Service
Northern Illinois University – DeKalb, Illinois
Presidential Commission for Persons with Disabilities | March 2022 – August 2025
- Served as a commission member advancing campus-wide accessibility, universal design, and inclusive policy initiatives.
- Collaborated with university leadership to identify barriers and recommend strategies to improve equitable access for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities.
- Presented with the 2023 Award for Outstanding Record of Service and Leadership for Persons with Disabilities in recognition of advocacy and institutional impact.
Allegiance Color Guard – Dundee, Illinois
Board of Directors, Community Outreach & Marketing | September 2025 – Present
- Elected member of the Board of Directors, leading community outreach, fundraising strategy, and event planning to enhance organizational visibility and financial sustainability.
- Develop and execute marketing initiatives, partnership development, and promotional campaigns to expand community engagement.
- Coordinate performances, competitions, and community events.
- Facilitate instruction and coaching for Dundee Park District Color Guard classes serving youth ages 8–14.