Her Story
About Angela
Angela Gazzara is a rehabilitation counselor based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She earned her master's degree in vocational rehabilitation from Hofstra University in 1987 and holds the CRC credential. Gazzara began her career in 1988 after moving to Colorado, where she advanced through roles in field and inpatient case management before founding her own company in 2011. Her expertise centers on case management with a focus on head injury cases and workers' compensation. She is a member of the American Board of Vocational Evaluators and was nominated Best Case Manager in the State in 2015. In addition to her professional work, Gazzara volunteers weekly at the Albuquerque airport visitor center.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Angela
01What do you attribute your success to?
I really think that this was predestined for me. I think that God had this plan for me before I was even born. What's made me follow it is that I'm a second twin, a survivor and a warrior. My faith has carried me through the tough times. I've been fearless and blessed that there's not much that scares me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Your education is the only thing no one can ever take from you. Do what makes you tick, do something that you love, and if you do what you love, it's like you've never worked a day in your life.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't enter workers' comp. It's folded and the nurses have destroyed it. Look for case management in hospitals or other venues that have more of a future.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Nurses and unqualified people taking over the field. Claimants settling for money instead of retraining. The whole concept of vocational rehab has fallen to the wayside. No proper counseling to get people back on track.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being faith-based. My faith has driven me and carried me through the tough times. It's more than just a job, it's a mission, a vocational mission in my life.
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