Special Emphasis Program Manager Kaitlin Schnabel celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month by contributing to a better workplace for all employees

In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM),we’re spotlighting the voices of employees who contribute to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) mission while advancing accessibility and inclusivity in the workplace. 

We recently spoke with Kaitlin Schnabel, a land law examiner for BLM's Yuma Field Office, also serving a collateral duty role as Special Emphasis Program Manager (SEPM) to learn more about her experiences as a federal employee, her advocacy for disability inclusion, and her thoughts on NDEAM. 

A journey into public service 

Kaitlin's path to public service and the BLM wasn't exactly a traditional one. She sought job stability, good benefits, and opportunities.  

"To be honest, I was just applying for jobs," Kaitlin shared. "I needed a job, and the federal government felt secure, with lots of options in different places."  

Joining BLM as a contact representative in 2020, she wasn’t initially familiar with the agency but was quickly captivated by its mission.  

"I learned so much at the front desk, and it really opened my eyes to the wide array of things BLM does," Kaitlin said. "It's a small agency, but it carries a heavy load." 

A unique and rewarding role 

Today, as a land law examiner, Kaitlin’s work involves a mix of research, fund management, and helping with large-scale projects.  

"I'm based in Yuma, but I assist with projects across the Colorado River District as needed," she explained.  

What does she love most about her job?  "Definitely the people," she said. "I've found that people here are down-to-earth, willing to help, and comfortable being themselves at work. That creates a more positive environment." 

Kaitlin also spoke passionately about her collateral role as a Special Emphasis Program Manager (SEPM) for Disability Employment, with responsibilities that include overseeing and facilitating programs aimed at promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and access within BLM Arizona. 

"I’ve had people reach out to me when they didn’t know what to do and being able to help or direct them to someone who can has been incredibly rewarding."  

Assistant Field Manager Jessica Han emphasized, “Kaitlin's unwavering dedication and exceptional performance as both a contact representative and land law examiner with the Bureau of Land Management, despite facing challenges, truly inspire us all. We are excited to see what the future holds for her as she continues to break barriers and achieve greatness!" 

Overcoming challenges and promoting inclusion 

Kaitlin has faced her share of challenges early in her career.  

"I worked in the private sector before this, and I definitely experienced discrimination and a lack of understanding about my rights as a disabled employee," she recalled. "But in the federal sector, it’s been different. I don’t see as much dismissal of disabled employees and what they’re capable of." 

Kaitlin emphasized the importance of hiring authorities like Schedule A, which enables individuals with disabilities to apply for federal positions through a non-competitive process. 

"I wish more people would acknowledge that if they have access to these hiring authorities, they should feel empowered to use them, regardless of perceived qualifications. Passionate people are needed in these jobs, and they should go for them." 

The meaning of National Disability Employment Awareness Month 

For Kaitlin, NDEAM is personally significant. "I’ve been disabled for almost a decade now, and before I started working in the federal sector, I hadn’t even heard of NDEAM," she admitted. "In the private sector, I didn’t see many opportunities for disabled individuals where their work was valued." 

She views NDEAM as essential for raising awareness of the contributions of workers with disabilities and breaking down barriers. "It’s not just about employment; it’s about creating a better workplace for everyone," Kaitlin explained. 

A commitment to inclusion 

NDEAM is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come and to renew our commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all. Through the experiences of employees like Kaitlin Schnabel, we are inspired to continue fostering a culture where everyone — with or without disabilities — can contribute to the important work we do at BLM.