Trailblazing DSP Amanda Nickerson Earns National Certification Through NADSP E-Badge Academy

Amanda Nickerson, Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the J. Arthur Trudeau Memorial Center in Warwick, Rhode Island, has achieved a remarkable milestone. She is the first DSP at the center to earn national certification through the National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) E-Badge Academy.

Over nearly one year, Nickerson demonstrated her unwavering commitment by attaining more than 15 electronic badges (e-badges) and completing 50 hours of training via the College of Direct Support. Her tireless efforts underscore her passion for her profession and the clients she so successfully supports.

“Kudos to Amanda for leading the way with E-Badge certification! Her determination and expertise illuminated a path for others. A true trailblazer on our team who exemplifies knowledge, professionalism, and dedication,” said Doddie McShane, Program Manager, Adult Community Services at the Trudeau Center and Nickerson’s supervisor.

Through the NADSP E-Badge Academy, DSPs can get credit for competency by achieving stackable e-badges, which can then be used to attain nationally-recognized NADSP Certification. The E-Badge Academy provides practical, tangible, and demonstrable recognition of the knowledge, skills, and practices of DSPs, and serves as a way for DSPs to receive recognition for the education they receive and the on-the-job competencies they demonstrate.

To earn e-badges, DSPs submit testimonials or training transcripts in two categories: NADSP Accredited Education and the CMS Core Competency Areas. In both types, specific evidence and examples demonstrating how the individual met the requirements for the e-badge are necessary. When a DSP demonstrates that their professional skills and values meet the specified set of criteria, as assessed by a NADSP reviewer, they can earn an e-badge acknowledging that accomplishment.

Nickerson found the journey through the E-Badge Academy a challenging yet rewarding experience. “I definitely learned a lot in the College of Direct Support,” she shares. “I learned different perspectives by watching the videos. The direct support learning was a highlight.”

However, the process of earning e-badges presented its fair share of obstacles. Nickerson found the written reflections particularly demanding, as they required precise wording and multiple revisions to meet the criteria. “If you’re not familiar with computer skills and writing skills, and if you haven’t done that stuff in a while, some of the wording was hard,” she explains.

Despite these hurdles, Nickerson’s determination propelled her forward. “Some parts were challenging, particularly the e-badges,” she acknowledges. It was overwhelming at first but the more I did it the easier it was.  Eventually, it became routine to dedicate an hour or two a week on E-badge.”

When asked about the biggest highlight of her career at Trudeau, Nickerson doesn’t hesitate: “My team. I have the best team when it comes to working with our guys, and we just have a great group of individuals. It’s just a very rewarding job.”

The sense of accomplishment that comes from witnessing the individuals she supports achieve their goals is profoundly gratifying. “Seeing our guys achieve their goals that we’ve been working towards—in those moments, my team and I can say, we’ve completed our jobs for the day,” she says.

Nickerson’s journey at Trudeau spans an impressive 13 years. She began her career in residential care, transitioning after four years to the community day program, which was more center-based at the time. Her roles allowed her to experience both residential and community support services simultaneously.

Today, Nickerson’s day-to-day work in the community day program involves facilitating a wide array of activities and volunteer opportunities for the individuals she supports. From bowling to exploring the local community, her role is dynamic and engaging. Additionally, she spends one day a week in residential care, assisting with in-home tasks and recreational outings.

When not at work, Nickerson’s life revolves around her family. Married to Rob, she is a proud mother to Mason, 8, and Aubrey, 4, as well as a beloved cat and dog. Nickerson enjoys time with her family, with evenings often dedicated to the children’s karate classes.

Amanda Nickerson’s achievement as the first DSP at the J. Arthur Trudeau Memorial Center to earn national certification through NADSP is significant. Her commitment to ongoing education and professional development serves to inspire her colleagues and future generations of DSPs.

By exemplifying the value of continuous learning and growth, Nickerson has paved the way for others in her field to pursue similar goals, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and support provided to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.