Paula D. Kohler, Ph.D. is a professor in the Special Education Program at Western Michigan University (WMU) and previously a senior research associate with the Transition Research Institute at the University of Illinois. Dr. Kohler also directs the Career Connections Research Center (CCRC). She is recognized for her research regarding effective transition practices for youth with disabilities, including effective transition programs, transition-related competencies, career and technical experiences, work-based education, and other aspects of transition-focused education.