Staff

Jimmie has been the Executive Director of the Independent Living Center of Kern County since 2011. He earned a Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Supervision and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, both from California State University, Fresno.
Jimmie is a member of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers. He was appointed to the State Independent Living Council (SILC) in 2013, and termed out in 2019. He is a proud member of the Bakersfield East Rotary Club since 2014.
Before moving to Bakersfield, Jimmie held the position of Director of Program Services at Fresno County’s Independent Living Center, a position he held since 2001.
Jimmie is passionate about the needs of people with disabilities. Disability has affected his own family with his own visual impairment and having a brother that is Deaf. In his spare time, Jimmie likes to spend time with his family, exercise, be outdoors, play poker, and watch NFL football.

Tammy is the Deputy Director for ILCKC. Tammy attended Phoenix University while majoring in Accounting and Finance. Tammy is currently attending the University of Phoenix to obtain her Master’s in Business Administration. Tammy has worked in the accounting field for many years gaining a vast knowledge in the public and private accounting sectors. Combining expertise in Accounting, Finance, Management, and Human Resources Tammy brings a broad experience range to the ILCKC.

Aaron has worked in various settings with people living with disabilities. He is committed to supporting people in achieving their goals for their life through taking a “person-centered” approach by helping the person identify what is important to and for them. He has a certificate in Disability Services from Taft College, a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from CSUB, and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Regent University.
He is married to Raquel who works in Special Education and has one daughter Sarah. For fun, Aaron collects sports cards and plays fantasy football.

Ashley Cheney is a Deaf Advocate and Independent Living Specialist who has been working with people with disabilities since 2016. She joined the Independent Living Center of Kern County in 2023 and has not looked back since. She is all about personal growth and doing whatever she can to support people who are not always heard. Helping others is not just her job, it is something that really matters to her. Ashley is super proud of the impact she has made so far, but she is just getting started. And outside of work? Total dog mom. She has five dogs – two Chihuahuas, a Pit-bull, and two Frenchies – her house is full of chaos, cuddles, and dog hair. Honestly, she wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Courtney was born and raised here in Bakersfield, Ca. She graduated from Bakersfield College (BC) with an Associate’s Degree and California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) with a Bachelor’s degree, both in teaching. Shortly after, Courtney decided to change paths and re-enroll at Bakersfield College (BC) to pursue ASL interpreting. Courtney has worked as a freelance interpreter in the community for almost two years before joining the Independent Living Center of Kern County. She is involved with the Deaf community and has a goal to uplift the Deaf community through services, advocacy, and providing equal access.

Dan Urban is a dedicated professional with a compassionate spirit and a drive to empower individuals with disabilities. He joins the Independent Living Center as its Special Projects Provider, bringing a diverse skill set and a commitment to personal growth. Dan seeks to help individuals discover their potential and achieve greater independence.
Dan boasts a unique background across industries including the military, transportation, electrical field, and even the U.S. Census Bureau. His service in the U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Air Force instilled discipline and gave him experience in being a part of something bigger than himself.
A renewed passion for aviation has Dan pursuing his Private Pilot Certification. When he’s not pursuing his dream of flight, he’s an avid cyclist, demonstrating his commitment to health and alternative transportation.
Dan recognizes the importance of giving back, prioritizing God, family, friends, and the wider community. He believes that striving for personal excellence positively impacts those around him.

David is an Assistive Technology Specialist who was hired by the Independent Living Center of Kern County in May of 2017. He grew up in the greater Los Angeles area and was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a sight-robbing disease. David began using adaptive technologies to have more accessible information via a computer and mobile phone. He used voiceover and screen reader programs to assist his visual disability. David received training with the Braille Institute of Los Angeles and the Junior Blind of America. He is the former vice president of the California Council of the Blind and advocate for the Blind Institute of Technology.
David specializes in adaptive technology for people with disabilities. With advancements in technologies offering new opportunities for education and employment, David found himself reaching out to visually impaired community and individuals with cross-disabilities to share the information. Current technologies are now more attainable than any other time in history, and David is passionate about raising awareness.
David is an inspiration to many. He has overcome his disability to become a successful and respected Assistive Technology Specialist. He is committed to helping others with disabilities live more independent and fulfilling lives.
Here are some of the things that David does as an Assistive Technology Specialist:
• Assesses the needs of individuals with disabilities to determine the best assistive technology solutions for them.
• Provides training on how to use assistive technology.
• Advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities to access assistive technology.
• Conducts research on assistive technology.
• Develops and implements assistive technology programs and services.
David is a passionate advocate for people with disabilities, and he is committed to helping them live their best lives.

Heidi joined the Independent Living Center of Kern County team July 2019 as an IL Specialist. Heidi has over 10 years’ experience as a nutrition counselor for the Bakersfield WIC program. She grew up in Bakersfield, went to Stockdale High School, Bakersfield College, and received her BS degree in Food Science and Nutrition from CSU Fresno. Heidi enjoys gardening with a special interest propagating succulents. At a young age, Heidi enjoyed gymnastics but began noticing a dizziness while performing. Symptoms caused concern leading to an eventual diagnosis of juvenile-onset medulloblastoma. Heidi’s experience with brain cancer, along with overcoming post-surgery challenges, will help empower people with disabilities to believe they can do what others tell them they can’t.

Hermandeep joined the agency in late 2022 as the LTSS Manager. He graduated from California State University of Bakersfield with his Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Specialization in Healthcare Management. His goals are to provide strategic planning to achieve the agency’s organizational goals, effective leadership, and improving team performance to work in line with the agency’s mission and vision.

Ian is a Bakersfield native who graduated from Ridgeview High School. He then attended and graduated from the Art Institute of California- Los Angeles with a Bachelors of Computer Science degree. Following that, he has gone on to collaborate with several television and commercial companies doing graphic design, visual effects, and motion graphics. Ian has almost 6 years of customer service years under his belt. Approximately 2 years were helping with troubleshooting apple products and 3 years he helped out with technical issues, data entry, and customer service in an office.
Ian enjoys helping people and was drawn to ILCKC because of that. He believes that if at the end of the day he was able to help someone who needed it and put a smile on their face then that was a great day.
In his free time, Ian enjoys spending time with his wife, playing some games, eating some food, and occasionally going out.

Ian joins the ILCKC team with an Associate’s of Science in General Biology and an Associate’s of Arts in Liberal Studies from Bakersfield Community College (BC). While in college, Ian has been very active as they worked in several BC-Departments: from the Student Life Office working as marketing production team lead, to the Student Health and Wellness Center working in marketing and sanitation as well as a Biology Tutor in the Tutoring Center and an Academic Expert with the Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement Program.

Ian is excited to add a spark to the agency! They look forward to promoting the agency’s mission, vision and goals.

Jasmine was born and raised in Kern County. She grew up in Delano where she graduated from Robert F. Kennedy High School. She then attended Bakersfield College, earning her Associate of Arts degree in American Sign Language and Liberal Arts, as well as, completing the Interpreting Training Program, as part of the very first cohort! Jasmine has worked alongside interpreters out in the community and at Bakersfield College, interning with Independent Living Center of Kern County before becoming an ASL staff interpreter. Jasmine enjoys interpreting musicals, performing arts and has interpreted on this platform across Kern County. Jasmine’s hope is for her ASL interpreting services to assist the community to obtain more access to resources.

Jessica Carrillo is the Community Living Coordinator here at the Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC). Jessica joined ILCKC first as a volunteer in 2009 and was then hired on in 2010. Jessica’s numerous roles at ILCKC began with her position as an administrative assistant/volunteer coordinator in 2010; she was an office manager in 2012; she became an IL Specialist in 2016; she was an IL Rural Area Specialist in 2018 and currently works as a Community Living Coordinator for the program Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) since 2022. Jessica currently has 14 years of experience working with people with disabilities.
Outside of ILCKC, Jessica has been with her spouse since 2005 and has 5 children. Jessica is also a huge fan of Pocahontas. Jessica’s favorite quote to live by is from Henry Ford “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success”.

Laura is the Program Coordinator for program staff here at Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC). She is a dedicated and experienced professional who has been contributing to the Independent Living Center of Kern County (ILCKC) since 2011. With a strong educational background that includes a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling Services from California State University, Fresno, Laura is well-equipped to assist individuals with disabilities.
Laura’s previous field experience of 3 years working with individuals with disabilities in both educational and community settings indicates that she has a diverse skill set, encompassing both recreational opportunities and teaching independent living skills. Her involvement in a Transition Program for Students with Disabilities, where she provided personal, academic, vocational, behavioral guidance, and counseling services, highlights her commitment to assisting individuals with disabilities succeed in various aspects of their lives.
Laura’s role as a student teacher in the Fresno United School District further demonstrates her dedication to education and empowerment. Her belief in continuous learning from co-workers and consumers reflects her humility and open-mindedness, essential qualities for effective teamwork and progress in the field.
Laura takes pride in being part of the ILCKC team and is motivated by the opportunity to positively impact the lives of individuals with disabilities. Her background and passion make her an invaluable asset to the organization and the people it serves.

Lonnie is currently pursuing an Associate’s degree in Psychology at Bakersfield College and has a 4.0 GPA. Lonnie has two years of experience as a homeless outreach services provider. He has worked on street outreach teams as a Case Manager and Shelter Coordinator at the Arvin Navigation Center. Lonnie volunteers at the Kern County Cancer foundation and at the Salvation Army Rehabilitation Center. Aspiring to obtain a Master’s Degree in Behavioral Sciences from UNLV in his home town of Las Vegas, Lonnie has a goal of one day creating his own non-profit that will combat substance abuse and end homelessness. Lonnie has lived experience with a disability and is thriving with a passion for helping people in need. Having a growth mindset, along with perseverance and determination.

Maria is deeply committed to supporting her community, which makes her thrilled to join the Independent Living Center of Kern County. With six years of volunteer experience, including leadership roles with the American Cancer Society’s Bakersfield and Delano chapters, as well as the Children’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon and Kissmas, she has helped raise awareness and resources for causes like children’s health and homelessness.

Her experience also includes working with nonprofits like The Fresno Center, where she gained valuable insights into community-driven initiatives. Maria holds an associate’s degree in Liberal Studies and American Sign Language from Bakersfield College and is pursuing a degree in Linguistics, with plans to transfer to Bakersfield State University.

As a Delano native, Maria is passionate about using her skills and education to continue advocating for and uplifting her community.

Nicole Zacarias is the Public Policy Coordinator for ILCKC. Nicole has worked in the advocacy field for 15 years and has made it her mission to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Nicole is excited to advocate and promote change not only for those with disabilities but for her son that has Autism. Nicole holds an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts and is pursuing her Bachelors in Psychology. She recently moved to Bakersfield with her husband and their four children.

Patty came to ILCKC with an Associate Degree in Science. Married to her late husband of over 30 years. Fred and Patty were prior owners a local business named Bugni Hardware and Feed Store. Fred and Patty also owned a Lumber store in Arvin. Arvin Lumber.
Patty has experience as a Licensed Realtor for over 10 years helping people buy and sell homes in the Bakersfield area. Patty brings her background, experience, and skills to ILCKC with a love for aging adults and people with disabilities. As ILCKC’s receptionist, enables Patty to assist with helping those in need, and at the same time, assuring they get to the right person for help. Her knowledge in business and working with people of all ages and avenues of life gives an advantage to help in understanding those in need of all walks of life. Patty has interpersonal skills and compassion, along with understanding and listening abilities, to assist people with disabilities.

Renee began with Independent Living Center of Kern County as a receptionist volunteer for one year. She has since worked for ILCKC for the last 11 years as an Independent Housing Specialist assisting consumers with Housing and Independent Living services as well as helping consumers with other programs and services offered by ILCKC. Prior to ILCKC, Renee had 30 years in customer service. Renee holds an Associate Degree in Administration of Justice as well as graduating in 1999 from the Kern County Sheriff’s Department Academy.

Stephanie graduated from Bakersfield High School in 2006 and continued her education at Bakersfield College where she earned her Associate of Arts degree in American Sign Language. While attending BC she had the opportunity to experience Gallaudet University with her professors on a week-long educational “tour”. Stephanie then attended California State University, Northridge (CSUN) where she entered the Interpreting Education Program . While an undergraduate there, she joined the Deaf sorority, Alpha Sigma Theta, where she served on the Executive Board for one year and as Alumna Advisor for one year. Stephanie was involved in the Deaf Studies Association (DSA), Real Women, Real Beauty (fundraising for DeafHope), Sign ‘N Run and many other Deaf events. Stephanie graduated from the program and earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Deaf Studies with an emphasis in ASL/English interpreting. After earning her degree Stephanie continued her education in the Accelerated Collaborative Teaching program- World Languages at CSUN where she taught American Sign Language for one year at the secondary level. She stayed in the Los Angeles area as a freelance interpreter until her move back to Bakersfield in 2015. Stephanie has been involved with the Deaf community for over 20 years and hopes to bring more awareness to Deaf Culture/Community, as well as, partner with the Deaf community of Bakersfield.

Susan has worked in the disability industry for over 20 years. She just recently retired from Taft College working for the Transition to Independent Living Program specifically in transition services and career education. After retirement, she decided to continue in this industry part time and pursue the important work of assisting people with disabilities with independence in their lives. She has her certificate in Disability Services from Taft College and a Bachelor’s degree in Organization Leadership from University of Laverne. She is a sports fan who loves the Los Angeles Angels, Clippers and Detroit Lions.

Tammy is excited to bring her passion for helping others to the Independent Living Center of Kern County. She earned her Social Security Benefits Consultant certification from Cornell University. With over 20 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to assisting youth and adults with disabilities. Tammy’s favorite thing to do is advocate for people who have a disability and their families. Her favorite saying is from Charlie Chaplin “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” When she is not consumed with championing and cheering on others, Tammy can be found reading, taking walks, or traveling across America with her family to visit Major League ballparks.

Teresa was born in Long Beach and raised here in Bakersfield, CA where she graduated from Foothill High School in 2007. She received her AA degree in Liberal Arts from Bakersfield College in 2009. Teresa then took her first American Sign Language class in the summer of 2009, falling in love with the language and culture. She went on to further her education and received her AA degree in American Sign Language. In 2021, she graduated the Interpreter Training Program (ITP) from Bakersfield College.

Before joining ILCKC, she worked as an ASL interpreter for the Rosedale Union School District for 3 years. In 2024, she began freelance interpreting with ILCKC. Teresa enjoys outdoor activities, baking, and spending time with her family. With her passion for interpreting, she strives to provide equal access and more awareness to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community.