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A Heart for Service: Angela Penner Reflects on 20 Years at TECH

March 25, 2025

What makes an organization truly person-centered? How does a team stay committed to serving others for decades? In this powerful finale episode of our Disability Awareness Month mini-season, we sit down with Angela Penner, Director of Services at TECH – bringing unmatched heart and perspective to the individuals and families TECH supports every day!

Angela has been with TECH for nearly 20 years. What began as a short-term role as a Direct Support Professional turned into a lifelong passion for advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since then, she’s served in several key roles — including Case Manager and Residential Manager — before stepping into her current leadership position.

“I thought I’d be here for six months,” Angela shares. “I fell in love with it and can’t imagine doing anything else.”

In the episode, Angela talks about what a typical day in her role looks like, what drives her team, and how we continue to grow and adapt to meet the needs of the people we serve. She also shares insight into what it means to work in a truly person-centered organization, where we meet people where they are and help them set and achieve their own goals.

“We all depend on others — our families, our communities. People with disabilities are no different. Sometimes they just need help communicating their needs — and that’s where TECH comes in.”

Support the Mission: Visit the TECH Art Gallery

One meaningful way to support our mission is by visiting the TECH Art Gallery in Downtown Hutchinson. The gallery features original artwork and handmade goods created by TECH artists — each piece representing creativity, independence, and self-worth.

Gallery Hours
📍 Tuesday – Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
🛒 Shop online anytime at TECH Art Gallery

Angela’s story is a powerful reminder of the heart behind the services we provide every day. Her commitment to inclusion, advocacy, and community partnerships continues to shape the future of TECH and the lives of those we support.

Thank you for celebrating Disability Awareness Month with us. Whether you’ve listened to one episode or all of them, your support makes a difference. Let’s continue working together to build a community where everyone feels included, valued, and inspired.

Listen to the Full Episode Now! Check out The TECH Art Gallery