TACCA
Our team
President & Founder
Kathryn N. Pena, SFC
Kathryn Nicole Peña has proudly served in the United States Army for 13 years, beginning her career as an Intelligence Analyst before becoming a Drill Sergeant and, since 2019, serving as a Career Counselor. Her passion for helping Soldiers and their families inspired her to establish The Army Career Counselor Association, where she now serves as Founder and President.
As President, Kathryn oversees the Association’s mission to unite past and present Career Counselors, build a professional community, and provide meaningful resources and support. She leads organizational development and strategic initiatives that ensure the Association remains dedicated to those who serve to serve Soldiers.
Outside of the Association, Kathryn is pursuing a Master’s degree in Organizational Development. She is also an avid softball player, traveling internationally to compete on several military travel teams.
At home, Kathryn enjoys life’s adventures with her supportive wife and their two children, Bentley (5) and Wade (3). Together, they embrace family, service, and new experiences wherever the Army leads them.
Senior Vice President
Kevin S. Robinson, MSG
Kevin Robinson has proudly served in the United States Army for 14 years, beginning his career as an Infantryman before transitioning into the role of Career Counselor—a path shaped by the mentorship of two influential leaders who recognized his potential. Over the course of his 79S career, he has served as a Task Force Career Counselor in Afghanistan, Instructor/Writer, Chief Instructor/Writer, and Senior Career Counselor, consistently demonstrating a commitment to Soldiers’ professional and personal growth.
As Senior Vice President of The Army Career Counselor Association, Kevin supports the President and fellow board members in advancing the Association’s mission. He brings insight, innovation, creativity, and mentorship to the team, ensuring the organization fosters a true sense of family while uniting Career Counselors past and present.
Kevin holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of Louisville and is SHRM-CP certified. His academic background complements his professional mission of developing Soldiers, leaders, and organizational success.
Outside of his professional commitments, Kevin embraces an active lifestyle with hobbies that include boogie boarding, snorkeling, hiking, biking, running, and even rapping. At home, he enjoys life with his wife, Elysha, and their three children—Lily, Kai, and Amelia—together celebrating family, service, and adventure wherever the Army leads them.
Secretary
Jessica M. Alvarez, SSG
Jessica M. Alvarez has proudly served in the U.S. military for 14 years, beginning with 8 years in the Navy. In 2019, she joined the Army as a Fire Control Specialist. In 2022, she transitioned to a Career Counselor—a role that allows her to pursue her passion for guiding and supporting Soldiers in their professional journeys.
As Secretary, she is committed to fostering clear communication, organization, and collaboration within the association. She believes strongly in building connections that strengthen the mission and Career Counselor field.
Jessica holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management and is preparing to earn her SHRM-CP certification.
Outside of the uniform, she enjoys staying active and connected with her community. Her hobbies include dancing salsa and zapateado, volunteering, working out, and exploring the outdoors.
Treasurer
Shawnte L. Waterbury, SFC
Shawnte L. Waterbury has dedicated over 17 years to the U.S. Army, with the past 9 years spent serving as a Career Counselor guiding Soldiers through critical decisions on reenlistment, transitions, and career advancement. Known for her ability to balance strategic vision with practical execution, she has built a reputation for excellence in counseling, resource stewardship, and organizational leadership. These skills translate seamlessly into her role as Treasurer, where she brings the same commitment to precision, accountability, and mission-focused results in managing the association’s financial health.
Shawnte’s passion for empowering Soldiers—both in uniform and as they transition to civilian life—drives her commitment to the Army Career Counselor Association. As Treasurer, she ensures every dollar is managed with integrity and transparency, safeguarding the association’s resources so it can continue delivering meaningful support, advocacy, and professional development for Career Counselors across the force.
Beyond her professional and volunteer leadership, Shawnte is pursuing a Master of Science in Social Work at the University of Louisville, where she is building on her passion for service and advocacy. She is also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and finds balance through running—valuing it as much for mental clarity as for fitness. Most importantly, she is a devoted mother to her two daughters, Amber and Olivia, who remain her greatest source of inspiration and purpose.
Vice President of Developement