A little bit more about us
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Like the perfect yin and yang, we bring together unique strengths and perspectives that, when combined, create something truly special.
Our partnership isn’t just about work – it’s built on a foundation of friendship, mutual respect, and a shared passion for creating meaningful impact across employment, learning, and opportunity.
Andrea, with a background in special education and transition coordination, and Alison, with a background in vocational rehabilitation and workforce development, have joined forces to build supports that meet people where they are and help them move forward with confidence.
Together, through our three divisions – The Connection Co., The Compass Co., and The Career Co. – we support individuals, professionals, and organizations through different stages of the employment journey: from connection and access, to entry and re-entry into the workforce, to career growth and development.
We don’t pretend to have all the answers, but one thing is certain: we are committed to learning, growing, and building better pathways into work alongside the people and communities we serve.
Welcome to our team – it’s going to be a meaningful journey.
Alison Swan, MS, CRC
Hi there, I’m Alison. A typical day for me looks like getting outside whenever I can, listening to a good podcast or some 2000’s pop-punk/alternative classics, and diving into research and learning related to the work we do and the programs we build.
I’m known for my big heart, determined mindset, and high standards. I value authenticity, integrity, and freedom most, along with well-being, lifelong learning, practical knowledge, minimalism, and a bit of wit.
As a (late-diagnosed) AuDHD gal, I tend to think deeply, connect ideas quickly, and thrive in the sweet spot where creativity, structure, and meaning overlap.
I’m a counselor and instructional designer who genuinely loves learning – and even more, making it useful. I build curriculum and tools that support career transitions, confidence-building, and meaningful, sustainable work. I’m especially drawn to taking complex ideas and turning them into clear, practical steps that actually stick.
If you’re extra curious, I’ve been in the vocational rehabilitation field since 2013, with a strong focus on developing and delivering training and education that supports people in building skills, self-advocacy, and confidence in the workplace.
I hold a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Wisconsin–Stout and am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC).
For four years, I was a solopreneur in my field, and at the end of 2022 I teamed up with the best business partner a gal could ask for – Andrea Marty.
When I’m not working or studying, you can find me outside with my family – camping, gardening, swimming, or simply enjoying time in nature. The things I’m most passionate about in life are my family, my business, nature, wildlife, adventuring, ultimate frisbee, and disc golf – yes, they’re different sports, and yes, I love them both.
Still here? Let’s connect!
“Alison and her team at TCC are great to work with. Alison has created her own, as well as assisted our team in developing and creating material that we use for facilitating advocacy programs for students and adults. These materials are easy to use and adaptable to what our participants need.”
AMANDA | CEO
Andrea Marty, M.Ed
Hi, I’m Andrea! I’m someone who leads with faith, joy, and grace – values I carry with me every day (literally, they’re tattooed on my wrist). I tend to see the world through rose-colored glasses, finding excitement in the little things and choosing to see the good in all people. At the same time, I’m deeply aware that our world isn’t always kind or inclusive – which is why I feel called to help change it.
I’m known for being encouraging, easygoing and loyal, and I bring a warm, thoughtful approach to everything I do. I value lifelong learning, dreaming big, and creating systems and training that solves real problems. I’m also humble, generous, and forgiving (with myself and others).
At my core, I’m a teacher and a creator. I hold a Master of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and spent over a decade as a special education teacher. Over the years, I’ve loved leading teams and developing programs, systems, and curriculum.
Today, I serve my community as disability employment service provider. I care deeply about being a leader who helps others build confidence, strength, and new skills so they can grow on their own terms.
I’m deeply grateful to do this work alongside my business partner, Ali Swan. While our values and vision are a perfect match, we also consider ourselves to be Yin and Yang – complimenting each other’s strengths and pushing each other to continually grow. Together, we create training and curriculum for both individuals and organizations.
Outside of work, my favorite days are spent with my family – exploring, camping, reading, playing sports, building LEGO, or grabbing ice cream. I’m learning to be more intentional with my time and content with all that I’ve been blessed with.
I’d love to connect with you! You can reach me at [email protected], follow along on social, or if you’re nearby – meet me at Belts for ice cream!
“Andrea is an incredible leader and educator. She empowers people with disabilities and those that support them with the skills, resources, and mindset needed to create opportunities. Her fierce advocacy, creative problem-solving, and strong communication skills have created so many powerful collaborative partnerships that serve all of our young adults with disabilities. You leave every interaction with Andrea a better person as a result of her knowledge, expertise, and heart.”
AIMEE | ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION