AZTEC Founders Dr. Vince Scott and Donna Ohling
The AZTEC Story
It all started in the early 1970s, when Dr. Vince Scott and Donna Ohling began their careers in the field of developmental disabilities with Mid-Nebraska Services.
As part of a national movement to develop community-based group home and day program opportunities for persons with developmental challenges, they felt compelled to create safe and supportive services where people could learn, grow and feel respected as equals in society.
While this movement quickly gained traction in the Midwest and East Coast throughout the 70s, the Southwest’s progression was significantly behind. So, together they relocated to Arizona and established the Arizona Training and Evaluation Center, Inc. (AZTEC) in 1979.
The organization was one of the earliest agencies tasked with implementing community-based services and programs for persons residing in state facilities, and our mission and goals have remained the same since day one. AZTEC has made a steadfast commitment to offering high-quality, innovative programs for people with disabilities for 45 years.
Throughout our history, we have worked toward a single purpose of caring and nurturing programs that allow people with disabilities opportunities to enhance their independence and well-being as they branch out into the “real world” – whether that means living on their own, gaining valuable work experience, making new friends, or simply getting out to enjoy and explore their surroundings.
1970s
AZTEC is founded as one of the first community-based organizations in Arizona
1980s
AZTEC relocates to West Valley to expand its residential program and starts Cottonwood program
1990s
AZTEC launches program in Showlow and opens Employment Program
2000s
AZTEC opens School to Work Transition Program in conjunction with Vocational Rehabilitation and Peoria School District
2010s
AZTEC starts its Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program
2020s
AZTEC celebrates its 45th anniversary, looking ahead to many more years of service!
1970s
AZTEC is founded as one of the first community-based organizations in Arizona
1980s
AZTEC relocates to West Valley to expand its residential program and starts Cottonwood program
1990s
AZTEC launches program in Showlow and opens Employment Program
2000s
AZTEC opens School to Work Transition Program in conjunction with Vocational Rehabilitation and Peoria School District
2010s
AZTEC starts its Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program
2020s
AZTEC celebrates its 45th anniversary, looking ahead to many more years of service!
Our Mission and Goals: A Pyramid with Purpose
For more than 45 years, AZTEC’s services, activities and decisions have been guided by the same intentional values and dedicated employees who take great pride in encouraging members to improve their quality of life and reach their full potential every day.
Each employee is dedicated to the philosophy that every human being, regardless of their level of ability, deserves support to achieve their maximum potential and a strong quality of life. We believe everyone has a right to live happily and independently, and we’re passionate about helping every program participant reach their unique definition of success.
Our priorities are based on our PEOPLE:
Meet the Team
The AZTEC management team brings extensive expertise in helping people with developmental challenges
to confidently thrive. With decades of combined experience, these leaders represent our organization’s
stability, integrity and drive to make an impact in Arizona.
The AZTEC management team brings extensive expertise in helping people with developmental challenges to confidently thrive. With decades of combined experience, these leaders represent our organization’s stability, integrity and drive to make an impact in Arizona.
Executive Team
Management Team
Vickie Darr
Health Services Director
Peter Scherberger
Facilities Maintenance Director
Roy Hughes
Employment Services Director
A.D. Aviles
Information Technology Manager
Kaelin Maes
Human Resources Manager
Tiffany Hoffman
Support Services Coordinator
Melissa Kubicka
Residential Services Coordinator
Evelyn Nez
Health Services Specialist
John Ruffin
Adult Services Supervisor
Jaryee Carl
Scheduling Coordinator/Trainer
Meet the Board of Directors
AZTEC’s success depends on the support and active participation of compassionate people who live and work in the communities we serve. Ensuring we always stay focused on our members and their families, our Board of Directors is comprised of community business leaders and professionals. Their unique perspective directly influences the agency’s strategic plan, policies and service delivery systems.
Vince Ohling-Scott
President
Derek Buescher
Chairperson
Dr. Jenna Buchanan
Vice-Chairperson
Dr. Deborah
Van Marche
Secretary/Treasurer
Ready for Your Family Member to Reach Their Full Potential?
Get in touch with our team to learn more about AZTEC and find the best fit programs. We can’t
wait to meet you and start supporting your loved one’s unique wants, needs and goals.
Get in touch with our team to learn more about AZTEC and find the best fit programs. We can’t wait to meet you and start supporting your loved one’s unique wants, needs and goals.
