Shannon Smiles
Shepherdstown
Summary
Dedicated and results-driven professional with extensive experience in training, program development, and benefits counseling. Adept at mentoring, stakeholder collaboration, and strategic program implementation. Passionate about empowering individuals through education, resource connection, and advocacy.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Training & Technical Assistance Liaison
Virginia Commonwealth University
09.2023 - Current
- Led comprehensive training programs to support professionals in Social Security work incentive counseling
- Developed and delivered training materials to enhance industry knowledge and best practices
- Provided technical guidance on policy implementation and data collection strategies
- Mentored professionals through the certification process and ongoing development
Training & Technical Assistance Liaison
Virginia Commonwealth University
07.2017 - 09.2023
- Designed and facilitated national training programs for Social Security work incentive certification
- Assisted in developing supplemental training programs addressing emerging industry needs
- Created written materials and resources for nationwide distribution
- Provided expert guidance on state and federal benefits programs
Program Director
Maryland Benefits Counseling Network
07.2015 - 06.2017
- Planned and executed statewide training initiatives for supported employment professionals
- Developed competency-based assessments to evaluate program effectiveness
- Managed technical assistance efforts for employment networks and advocacy programs
- Oversaw data collection and outcome reporting for state and federal benefits programs
Owner/Operator
Benefiting You
01.2014 - 08.2015
- Provided one-on-one benefits counseling and work incentive education
- Developed training resources and educational materials for professionals and beneficiaries
- Facilitated workshops and training sessions on Social Security benefits and workforce reintegration
Employment Success Advisor
Virginia Commonwealth University National Training Center
02.2013 - 02.2014
- Educated individuals on managing and understanding Social Security benefits
- Connected beneficiaries with employment resources and state support programs
- Conducted individual assessments to determine benefits eligibility and impact of employment
Benefits Counselor
Way Station Inc.
01.2006 - 08.2009
- Guided individuals through benefits programs and work incentives
- Provided training for case managers and employment specialists
- Assisted beneficiaries in reporting work status and navigating employment transitions
Education
Master’s - Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA02.2025
Bachelor - Social Work
Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, WVSkills
- Training & Development
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Public Speaking & Presentations
- Benefits Counseling & Advocacy
- Team Leadership & Mentoring
- Strategic Planning & Implementation
- Relationship Building
- Written & Verbal Communication
Affiliations
- National Association of Benefits and Work Incentive Specialists (NABWIS)
- National Employment Network Association (NENA)
Professional Presentations
- Speaker at National Employment Network Association Conference & NABWIS Conference
- Developed and facilitated statewide training programs on workforce reintegration and benefits counseling
- Subject matter expert on self-employment, Medicare, Ticket to Work, and disability benefits
Timeline
Senior Training & Technical Assistance Liaison
Virginia Commonwealth University
09.2023 - Current
Training & Technical Assistance Liaison
Virginia Commonwealth University
07.2017 - 09.2023
Program Director
Maryland Benefits Counseling Network
07.2015 - 06.2017
Owner/Operator
Benefiting You
01.2014 - 08.2015
Employment Success Advisor
Virginia Commonwealth University National Training Center
02.2013 - 02.2014
Benefits Counselor
Way Station Inc.
01.2006 - 08.2009
Bachelor - Social Work
Shepherd University
Master’s - Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling
Virginia Commonwealth University
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