Katlynn (Kati) Stecker’s journey from a high school student in Pahrump to her current position as a Foster Home Developer/Kinship Support Specialist in Austin, Texas, is one marked by perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to social justice. Now a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Sociology from Texas State University, Kati has used her own challenging experiences with the foster care system as the driving force behind her career, ultimately choosing to help children facing the same struggles she once did.
A 2015 graduate of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), Kati’s time at the school was filled with memories that shaped the person she is today. Among her most cherished high school moments are her experiences in two standout classes—Physics and Anatomy—during her junior year. “I loved Physics, especially the pasta bridge project,” she recalls, fondly remembering how she and a partner spent the night fixing a malfunctioning design, ultimately earning an A on the project. Her memories of Anatomy are equally unforgettable, especially when her teacher, Mr. Nygaard, played the DNA Replication Song to the tune of the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way.” “To this day, I can’t hear that song without singing the DNA version!” Kati laughs, reflecting on a lighthearted moment that turned into an enduring lesson.
Throughout high school, Kati was also deeply involved in extracurricular activities. She joined Select Choir as a sophomore, a decision that enriched her musical talents during her later years. Her involvement in Track and Field added another layer of discipline and teamwork to her high school experience. Kati also served as the Senior Class Secretary on Student Council, which helped her develop leadership skills and an understanding of the importance of community. However, Kati admits that personal life challenges kept her from fully embracing dual credit courses, a regret she holds as she recognizes the opportunities they could have provided to her at the time.
Though Kati no longer maintains a strong connection with PVHS, she keeps in touch with a few teachers on social media. “I stay connected through them and the posts they share about the school. I also keep in touch with a few of my high school friends through social media and we occasionally interact with each other’s posts. It’s fun to watch everyone’s journey from a distance,” she shares. Even though she couldn’t attend her 10-year reunion due to work commitments, Kati was thrilled to see photos of her classmates reconnecting. Her mom still lives in Pahrump, so Kati makes a point to return every couple of years, ensuring she maintains a tie to her roots.
After high school, Kati initially pursued a college education at Southwestern University, later transferring to Texas State University to complete her Bachelor’s degree. She took a non-traditional route, including three gap years, as she navigated the financial difficulties that many college students face. “It wasn’t easy, but it made the achievement of finally graduating in 2023 all the more meaningful,” she reflects. Earning a degree in Applied Sociology was the turning point in her life, as it directly influenced her career path. “I started out as a vocal performance major, but after taking my first Sociology class, I realized I never wanted to do anything else,” she says with conviction.
Kati’s career journey began in the service industry, where she worked as a server while attending school. This flexible job allowed her to support herself while focusing on her studies. After finishing her degree, Kati was hired by Angelheart Child Placing Agency, a nonprofit organization in Round Rock, Texas, where she began her work with foster care. In Texas, Child Placing Agencies are responsible for licensing foster homes and offering rigorous training, and Kati’s position as a Case Manager involved overseeing foster homes, making sure the children in care were properly supported, and helping foster families access necessary resources.
Her personal history with foster care gave her a unique perspective on her work. “I was involved in the foster care system myself, and I feel that my experience has allowed me to connect with the children I serve in a way that others might not be able to,” she shares. This connection is something she finds immensely rewarding, as she helps guide children through the difficulties of being placed in foster care.
In less than two years, Kati was promoted to the position of Foster Home Developer/Kinship Support Specialist. This new role allows her to train prospective foster parents and offer ongoing support to kinship families—those who are fostering children related to them. “I’m very proud of this promotion,” she says. “It’s a significant achievement and offers a whole new set of experiences for me to learn from.”
Kati’s passion for social justice is deeply rooted in her studies. “Sociology is an incredible subject that fueled my desire to change systems that aren’t working for kids like me who grow up in foster care,” she explains. “It made me want to make a difference, to improve the system for children who experience what I did.” However, Kati also recognizes the challenges that come with her work. “I often get frustrated with the foster care system,” she admits. “Some of the decisions made by advocates or judges aren’t in the best interest of the children, and it can be difficult when you feel like you can’t do anything about it.”
Despite the emotional toll of her job, Kati emphasizes the importance of staying connected with the children she works with. “I completely disagree with the advice that says social workers shouldn’t get emotionally invested in their cases,” she says firmly. “Those kids need your attention, your care, and your connection. They deserve to feel like they matter, and I’m proud to give them that.”
Looking ahead, Kati has even more ambitious goals. She plans to pursue a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) next fall and eventually work towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With an eye on the future, Kati hopes to apply for a PhD program in Social Welfare or Social Policy and conduct research that could influence public policy changes in the foster care system. “I want to make a real impact on the policies that affect these children,” she says with resolve.
Outside of work, Kati enjoys spending time with her boyfriend of three years and their dog, Cory, who has been a loyal companion since high school. The couple enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and paddleboarding on the lake. “I love being outdoors, especially when the weather is warm in Texas,” Kati shares. When she’s not exploring nature, Kati loves reading and cooking shows, often having them on in the background while she works from home.
In addition to her professional achievements and personal life, Kati also gives back through mentoring foster children and volunteering with the Austin Parks Project when her schedule permits. “I try to stay involved when I can, but my job keeps me pretty busy,” she admits.
As Kati prepares for the next phase of her life and career, including traveling to Iceland for the first time in September, her story continues to inspire others. Her determination to overcome obstacles and pursue a career dedicated to social justice proves that personal challenges can become the foundation for meaningful change. Through her work with Angelheart and her commitment to improving the foster care system, Kati is truly making a difference for the children who need it most.
