Jessica Winchester

Jessica Winchester is a passionate and strategic leader with over 17 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in vocational services for individuals with disabilities. She currently serves as the Employment First Program Manager at the University of Arizona’s Sonoran Center for Excellence in Disabilities, where she leads statewide initiatives to implement Employment First principles and expand access to Customized Employment through Arizona’s first pilot project.

Jessica is known for driving inclusive systems change, overseeing complex state and federal contracts, and leading high-performing teams across multiple states. In her previous role as Director of Vocational Services at Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona, she managed employment programs supporting diverse communities in collaboration with the Department of Defense, GSA, and state agencies.
Her leadership is rooted in person-centered approaches, equity, and measurable outcomes—resulting in increased job placements, enhanced program accountability, and stronger community inclusion. Jessica brings deep experience in CARF-accredited programs, customized and supported employment strategies, and employment-focused policy and systems work.

She is a servant leader who champions innovation, accountability, and cross-sector collaboration. Jessica has also served on boards advocating for veterans and disability inclusion and remains active in statewide coalitions advancing Employment First in Arizona. With expertise in program design, strategic planning, and compliance, Jessica is deeply committed to equity-driven leadership and believes meaningful work should be accessible to everyone.