Steve Wooderson

Steve Wooderson’s career in public vocational rehabilitation began in 1981 in Missouri, where he spent 20 years advancing through leadership roles and ultimately overseeing statewide services. In 2000, he moved to Iowa and became the Administrator of Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services (IVRS) by 2002, managing key programs and services. In 2010, Steve assumed a national leadership role as CEO of the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) in Washington, DC, collaborating with state VR administrators across the country to support rehabilitation services for approximately 1.2 million individuals with disabilities. He retired from CSAVR in September 2025.

Recognized for his servant leadership and commitment to partnership, Steve’s career has spanned all levels of public VR. In addition to his VR leadership, he served two decades in the Army National Guard and Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He is also a certified Dale Carnegie trainer and continues to serve as adjunct faculty at Drake University. Now retired, Steve teaches and consults in the VR field and enjoys time with his family—especially cheering on his grandkids—and the simple pleasure of fishing.