Member Spotlight: Kimberly Kocian, MBA, CAE, CMP
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Kimberly Kocian, MBA, CAE, CMPDirector, American Bar Association
How did you come to the association industry?
A neighbor played a key role in helping me land my first association job at Smithbucklin, which led me into the world of association management. Smithbucklin, an association management company, provided experience in both event management and the broader scope of managing associations and their members. This kind of experience was a great foundation for expanding my skills and knowledge in all areas such as membership engagement, conference management, and stakeholder communication. Additionally, it allowed me to develop transferable skills such as contract management, financial management, and relationship building.
All this experience culminated into various roles at the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and my current role at the American Bar Association (ABA). At the ABA, I continue to leverage my experience in governance to advance the ABA and Solo, Small Firm and General Practice Division’s mission. This ongoing journey allows me to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, tackle complex challenges, and make meaningful contributions to the industry.
I have been in the industry for over 25 years, during which I have gained a deep understanding of strategic leadership, organizational management, and policy development.
What is your favorite part of your job?
One of my favorite parts of working at the ABA is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of professionals, all dedicated to advancing the legal profession and ensuring access to justice. Being part of an organization that plays such a pivotal role in shaping legal standards, advocating for policy changes, and supporting legal professionals across the country is incredibly fulfilling. I particularly enjoy working with the Solo, Small Firm and General Practice Division, where I can contribute to impactful projects that shape the future of law, enhance professional development, and advocate for policies that support fairness and equity within the legal system. The collaborative environment and the ability to engage with such a broad range of experts and thought leaders make every day at the ABA intellectually stimulating and purpose-driven.
Tell us about a time that your involvement in this community had an impact on your career or life.
One pivotal moment that stands out in my career was when I became actively involved in the Association Forum during my time at ACHE. Through my participation, I had the opportunity to engage with professionals from various industries, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that aimed to address both challenges and innovations within the association sector. This experience allowed me to showcase my expertise and expand my professional network. The discussions sparked new insights that I was able to apply in my role, enhancing my ability to lead initiatives and drive change.
Additionally, through these connections, I was introduced to a mentor whose guidance and support were invaluable in navigating my career. This experience underscored the importance of collaboration and active involvement in industry-focused forums. It reminded me of the power of networking, continuous learning, and the collective strength of like-minded professionals working towards shared goals.
Tell us something about you that we wouldn’t find on your LinkedIn profile.
One thing you wouldn’t find on my LinkedIn profile is my passion for volunteering at civic events. Outside of my professional life, I dedicate time to supporting local initiatives, and these experiences have given me a unique perspective on the importance of civic engagement and how it strengthens communities. Volunteering has taught me valuable lessons in collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership, often in situations that require quick thinking and adaptability. It also allows me to connect with people from all walks of life, enriching my understanding of the challenges they face and deepening my commitment to making a positive impact. This involvement not only keeps me grounded but also fuels my drive to advocate for the greater good, something that I bring back into my professional life, particularly when working on initiatives that aim to make a difference in society.
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