Before there was a nonprofit, there was a classroom. And in that classroom, Joshua Fields, co-founder and executive director of The Next Step Programs, saw what most others overlooked—not just the barriers facing students with disabilities, but the untapped potential within them. That moment of recognition became the spark for something larger. Fields co-founded the organization to close the gap between education and independence for individuals with disabilities, transforming lives through opportunity, access and belief.
His journey began with lived experience. Fields grew up with a learning disability and understood firsthand the feeling of being underestimated. That perspective became his superpower. What started as a student-led initiative in college has become a thriving nonprofit serving over 400 individuals annually. Over the last three years, The Next Step Programs has expanded into multiple counties, launched new services and doubled its staff—all while maintaining a personalized, community-driven model.
For Fields, growth is not simply about scale—it’s about advancing dignity. As executive director, he leads by listening. He centers the voices of participants, families and staff in every decision, ensuring the organization stays responsive and relevant. That approach has helped build offerings that meet people where they are, from employment coaching to social engagement to daily living skills, and walk with them toward self-determined futures.
He believes the future of work in human services depends on flexibility and emotional intelligence. At The Next Step Programs, staff are cross-trained and encouraged to think critically, adapt quickly and lead with compassion. Fields models that mindset himself, maintaining transparency, seeking feedback and remaining open to evolution.
His recognition as a Titan 100 Honoree reflects the broad impact of his vision. Beyond programmatic leadership, Fields contributes to legislative efforts, collaborates with educators and employers, and challenges the systems that limit access. His advocacy extends the organization’s mission into spaces where inclusion still feels aspirational.
If he could master any skill instantly, it would be time management. Fields imagines a world where each day could be perfectly structured—balancing meetings, strategy, team check-ins and personal time without ever feeling overwhelmed. Mastering that ability would free him to focus more on big-picture thinking, creative problem-solving and connecting deeply with staff and participants. For him, time isn’t just a resource—it’s the gateway to clarity, efficiency and being present where it matters most.
What motivates him isn’t status or attention. It’s watching someone step into their first job, move into an apartment or confidently introduce themselves after years of silence. It’s seeing transformation unfold in real time—and knowing the role his team played in it.
Over the next five years, Fields envisions The Next Step Programs becoming a national model for post-secondary disability services. Growth will be deliberate, grounded in values and driven by outcomes that matter.
Leadership, to Fields, is a commitment to walking alongside others—removing obstacles, building bridges and celebrating every step forward as its own kind of victory.
