Amy Kirlangitis brings a unique combination of workforce development expertise, entrepreneurial experience, and genuine passion for breaking down barriers to employment—making her an ideal addition to the Empower and Link Board of Directors.

As a seasoned business development professional, Amy has spent the last four years as a dedicated champion of Amazon's Career Choice program, where she has become what she describes as "a walking billboard" for transforming people's futures through education and opportunity. Her comprehensive approach includes leading in-person recruitment events, hosting virtual information sessions, and building awareness across multiple sites in the network. This hands-on experience has given her deep insights into the challenges facing job seekers and the systemic barriers that prevent individuals from accessing stable employment.

Amy's understanding of transportation as a critical barrier to employment directly aligns with Empower and Link's mission. Through her recruiting work, she has witnessed firsthand how lack of reliable transportation creates insurmountable obstacles for job seekers. Her response has been proactive and solutions-focused: she has made it a "high priority goal" to exhaust all local resources and identify transportation options for individuals in need. This commitment demonstrates both her problem-solving approach and her understanding that meaningful change requires addressing root causes, not just symptoms.With this goal in mind, Amy created the first bus route from Jefferson (OH) and Hancock (WV) counties to the Findlay Industrial Park (PA) where employers are Amazon, Gordon food service, Niagara Bottling and Alro Steel and other employers.

Her background in recruiting provides Amy with invaluable perspective on connecting candidates with opportunities while navigating real-world challenges. She has consistently gathered feedback from job seekers and used those insights to drive meaningful conversations and improve outreach strategies. This experience positions her to contribute strategic insight to Empower and Link's programs while ensuring they remain grounded in the actual needs of the communities they serve.

Amy's entrepreneurial spirit adds another dimension to her board candidacy. Having launched two small businesses, she brings firsthand experience with the creativity, resilience, and people-centered approach necessary for sustainable community impact. Her entrepreneurial journey has reinforced her belief in the fundamental importance of human connection and empowerment—values that resonate deeply with Empower and Link's core mission.

Throughout her career, Amy has demonstrated a genuine passion for empowering others to take their next step, whether through career advancement, skill development, or overcoming practical barriers to employment. Her combination of strategic thinking, grassroots experience, and commitment to addressing transportation equity makes her a compelling candidate to help guide Empower and Link's continued growth and impact in the community.