Introducing WorkBridge Placement Partners.
Continuing a Legacy of Results-Driven Job Placement
WorkBridge Placement Partners builds on decades of proven success helping injured workers move forward with confidence. Founded on the strong legacy of Deborah Kersten & Associates, we partner with Qualified Rehabilitation Consultants (QRCs), employers, and rehabilitation professionals throughout Minnesota to deliver reliable, results-driven job placement services. Our team provides personalized guidance and support—helping clients navigate their job search with clarity and confidence.
Services
Comprehensive Job Placement Services for Injured Workers
At WorkBridge Placement Partners, we provide focused, results-driven job placement services that support successful return-to-work outcomes. Working in partnership with Qualified Rehabilitation Consultants (QRCs), we emphasize clear, consistent communication and timely updates to ensure collaboration, transparency, and steady progress—helping injured workers move confidently toward employment.
Job Goal Identification
We work closely with each client to identify realistic and meaningful job goals that align with their abilities, experience, and interests. Our specialists assess the client’s background, transferable skills, and physical capabilities to determine positions that are both suitable and gainful in relation to their previous employment. Drawing on our in-depth knowledge of the labor market, we provide tailored job ideas and guidance to help clients and QRCs establish clear, achievable employment targets.
Resume and LinkedIn Profile Development
At WorkBridge Placement Partners, we understand that a strong first impression can open the door to new opportunities. Our placement specialists work closely with each client to develop a targeted, professional resume that highlights relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments—aligned with current job goals and labor market needs.
When appropriate, we also assist clients in creating or refining their LinkedIn profiles to enhance visibility with employers and reflect a consistent, professional image across platforms. Each resume and profile is customized to showcase the client’s strengths and transferable skills, helping them present their best selves in today’s competitive job market.
Job Seeking Skills Training
We provide individualized training to help clients confidently navigate the job search process. Our specialists review effective job search methods, including networking strategies, online job boards, and application completion. We guide clients in developing compelling cover letters and preparing for interviews—both in-person and virtual. When needed, we also assist clients in strengthening their computer skills to help them comfortably complete online tasks throughout the job search. Through this hands-on approach, clients gain the tools, confidence, and strategies needed to conduct an organized and effective job search.
Mock Interviews
Interviewing can be one of the most challenging parts of the job search process. Our mock interview sessions give clients the opportunity to rehearse in a realistic setting and receive constructive feedback from experienced placement specialists. We tailor each session to the type of position the client is pursuing, helping them strengthen communication skills, refine responses, and build confidence. Through guided practice and feedback, clients are better prepared to make a positive impression and approach real interviews with greater ease and assurance.
Job Development
Our team conducts personalized job searches to identify suitable positions that match each worker’s abilities, experience, and vocational goals. We collaborate with QRCs to ensure all employment recommendations align with approved restrictions and rehabilitation plans.
WorkBridge maintains strong connections with local and statewide employers, opening doors to opportunities that align with client capabilities. Our outreach emphasizes mutual fit, workplace safety, and long-term success.
Labor Market Surveys
We provide comprehensive labor market research to help clients and QRCs make informed decisions throughout the placement process. Our team evaluates current job trends, hiring outlook, and wage expectations to ensure proposed job goals align with suitable and gainful employment opportunities. When a retraining proposal is being considered, we can conduct targeted labor market surveys to determine whether the investment in retraining is likely to lead to viable, long-term employment. This helps support thoughtful, data-driven recommendations that prioritize both feasibility and future success.
Meet our Job Placement Specialists
Backed by 75 years of combined experience, the WorkBridge Placement Partners team delivers proven expertise in vocational rehabilitation and job placement. Our specialists share a common passion for helping individuals return to meaningful work and for supporting QRCs in achieving successful outcomes. Supported by a team of skilled researchers, we take pride in our professionalism, responsiveness, and commitment to collaboration—working together to bridge the path from recovery to reemployment with trusted experience and proven results.
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Tina Olson
Tina is the Founder of WorkBridge Placement Partners. She leverages extensive experience in vocational rehabilitation and learning and development, along with a strong understanding of effective return-to-work strategies. For nearly twenty years, she’s worked with Deborah Kersten & Associates, Inc., helping hundreds of clients achieve successful employment outcomes. She is highly regarded for building strong rapport with clients and for her individualized coaching style, practical guidance, and clear labor market insight.
In addition to her direct client work, Tina serves on the Minnesota Association of Rehabilitation Providers (MARP) Board as the Job Placement/Vendor Director, helping advance advocacy and education for rehabilitation service providers.
Tina holds a Master’s degree in Adult Education from the University of Minnesota.
Suzanne Hiltner
Suzanne brings more than three decades of experience in job placement, including operating her own placement business and working with other vocational rehabilitation firms before joining Deborah Kersten & Associates in 2016. Now part of the WorkBridge team, she continues to draw on her extensive knowledge of Minnesota’s labor markets to help clients secure suitable, gainful employment. Known for her down-to-earth and supportive approach, Suzanne works diligently to equip clients with the tools and confidence needed to achieve positive outcomes.
Suzanne holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Social Science from the University of Minnesota.
Deb Kersten
Deb is the founder of Deborah Kersten & Associates, a respected job placement firm she led for 32 years. Throughout her career, she has built trusted partnerships with QRCs, insurers, and employers across Minnesota. She has earned a reputation for providing personalized, effective support to injured and unemployed workers, helping them return to meaningful employment. Her extensive experience, long-standing professional relationships, and consistent record of results have made her a respected leader in the field.
Now transitioning to a new role with WorkBridge Placement Partners, Deb brings decades of insight and a continued commitment to positive client outcomes.
Deb holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Northwestern College and credentialing as a Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF).
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