Her Story
About Stephanie
Stephanie Kneely serves as a reader in research and development within the government sector at Social Security. In this role, she assists employees with disabilities, focusing on those who are visually impaired, by troubleshooting issues with the JAWS screen reader program and stepping in to read information directly when needed. She also handles documentation review, compliance checks for HIPAA and client verification, and research when systems are down. Kneely brings 7 years of experience in government to her position, following 8 years with the school board system supporting autistic children and time at CareerSource Broward working with teenagers. She earned a Technology Computer Support Programming Certificate from Sheridan College, which equipped her with troubleshooting and computer support skills. Kneely attributes her success to lessons from her mother about being a helper and finding solutions to problems. She values integrity, respect, and communication in her work and personal life. Outside her role, she volunteers as secretary for Hollywood City Commissioner Linda Hill Anderson, taking notes at meetings, and is involved with the Homeless Mothers charity.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stephanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from my mom. She was always a helper who opened her doors to family in need. She taught us that there's always a solution to every problem and to be the solution, not the problem. That lesson has stuck with me throughout my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Someone once told me not to sell myself short and to know that where I am is where I belong. They said a cub is still a lion no matter what, meaning it doesn't matter if you're big or small, you're still who you're supposed to be and you'll get where you need to be.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Stand tall. Understand who you are. Follow your dream and don't let anyone tell you anything other than that you can do what you set your mind or heart to. Stay strong in your faith and keep your values of integrity, respect, and communication.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is hitting a ceiling because people stay in positions for a long time until retirement, leaving no room for growth for those trying to advance. This leaves people like me at a standstill, sometimes requiring a move to a totally different specialty.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, respect, and communication are most important to me.
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