Her Story
About Rachel
Rachel Geiger is an education professional specializing in special education support and student development. She currently works as a Special Education Paraprofessional with the Manitowoc Public School District, where she assists students with special needs in areas including reading, writing, mathematics, classroom transitions, hygiene, and other daily living skills. She also works as a seasonal Swim Instructor with CP Center, helping children with special needs develop foundational swimming skills and learn the fundamentals of various swimming strokes. Her work reflects her commitment to supporting students with diverse needs and helping them develop greater independence and confidence.
Geiger brings a diverse professional background that includes special education, behavioral health, security operations, customer service, and healthcare-related support. Prior to entering education, she worked as a Behavioral Health Technician with Caravel Autism Health, providing individualized therapy services to clients with autism. She also has experience as a Security Officer with EAA, a Bank Teller, and a Crossing Guard. Geiger originally pursued criminal justice and law enforcement, earning an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement from Fox Valley Technical College. She later transitioned toward education and psychology, returning to Lakeland University to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, which she expects to complete in 2027.
Geiger attributes her personal and professional progress to the strong support of her family and her faith. Her experiences growing up in special education and her love for children have influenced her commitment to working with students who have additional learning and developmental needs. She believes strongly in creating one's own career path rather than allowing others to dictate one's future. Outside of her professional and academic responsibilities, Geiger values her family, faith, church involvement, and her relationship with her husband, with whom she enjoys ballroom dancing. She also supports St. Jude Research Hospital and remains committed to personal growth, education, and serving others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rachel
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success primarily to the support of my family and my faith. Without my family's support, I do not believe I would be where I am today. My husband and I are strong believers, and we attend church every week while remaining actively involved in our church community. My faith and the support and resources available through my family and church have been an important foundation throughout my personal, educational, and professional journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is not to listen too much to what others think I should do and to recognize that sometimes I have to create my own career path. Everyone's journey is different, and I believe it is important to make decisions based on my own goals, interests, and circumstances.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to be confident in creating their own career paths and not allow other people's expectations to determine their future. My own career journey has changed directions, and I believe it is important to remain open to new opportunities and recognize that it is okay to pursue a different path when your interests and goals evolve.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My family and relationships are very important to me. My husband and I especially enjoy ballroom dancing together whenever we can. It is something we genuinely enjoy, and it gives us an opportunity to spend quality time together and continue strengthening our relationship.
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