Meet our team
Jason Stankoski, Founder & Alpha Dog
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Jason Stankoski, Founder & Alpha Dog
Jason is as passionate about adventure mobility with a guide dog as he is conducting a follow-up visit. Jason is a GDMI, OMS and the GM of Field & Lifestyle Services. Check out more about Jason by clicking the "find out more" button below.
Mary Chapell, Director
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Jason Stankoski, Founder & Alpha Dog
Mary is a GDMI, OMS and the Director of STAPELL. When she's not out training the dogs, she is running the Blind Rider Program for our customers interested in enhancing their balance and physical/mental stamina alongside their therapeutic mounts. Mary was a prior professional equestrian in the USA for 20 years before transferring to the s
Mary is a GDMI, OMS and the Director of STAPELL. When she's not out training the dogs, she is running the Blind Rider Program for our customers interested in enhancing their balance and physical/mental stamina alongside their therapeutic mounts. Mary was a prior professional equestrian in the USA for 20 years before transferring to the service dog industry. Find out more by clicking the "find out more" button below.
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Ben is highly requested for assistive technology. With his patient and persistent attention to your goals, Ben works tirelessly to enhance your automated life. Stay tuned for Ben's company opening of Progressiv, a lifestyle program to suit every VIP's needs. Find out more about Ben by clicking the button below.
Zak Sheppard, NDTF Trainer & Puppy Supervisor
Zak Sheppard, NDTF Trainer & Puppy Supervisor
Ben MacFie, AT Home Integration & Owner Progressiv
Zak Sheppard is a Nationally Accredited Dog Trainer through the National Dog Training Federation (NDTF), Certificate III Dog Behaviorist and companion animal trainer for over 10 years. His work includes the RSPCA and Samford Pet Resort, where he is the owner of Connect 2 Canines and delivers services to Resort guests. Zak assists in the
Zak Sheppard is a Nationally Accredited Dog Trainer through the National Dog Training Federation (NDTF), Certificate III Dog Behaviorist and companion animal trainer for over 10 years. His work includes the RSPCA and Samford Pet Resort, where he is the owner of Connect 2 Canines and delivers services to Resort guests. Zak assists in the Puppy Raising , Training, and Adventure programs. We are fortunate to have such a qualified and experienced Trainer to aid our team. Find out more about Zak by clicking the button below.
Hayden Smith, Business Manager
Zak Sheppard, NDTF Trainer & Puppy Supervisor
Sharon Rogers, Support Coordination
Hayden has joined the team during this time to help to drive the business forward as we grow and operate in this new COVID-19 environment. Hayden comes to us with NDIS experience from another service provider, as well as, experience and qualifications in philanthropy, events and business management. Hayden was one of the youngest recipien
Hayden has joined the team during this time to help to drive the business forward as we grow and operate in this new COVID-19 environment. Hayden comes to us with NDIS experience from another service provider, as well as, experience and qualifications in philanthropy, events and business management. Hayden was one of the youngest recipients to receive a guide dog in Australia and comes to us with over a decade of guide dog experience.
Sharon Rogers, Support Coordination
Zak Sheppard, NDTF Trainer & Puppy Supervisor
Sharon Rogers, Support Coordination
Sharon takes care of Support Coordination and plan reviews through her company Guiding Light Support Coordination. She has been a guide dog handler for many years and is now on her second guide dog, Pacho, STAPELL’s first guide dog and Australia’s first German Shepherd guide dog in 30 years.
Patricia “Trish” Brunnings, Community Support Worker
Patricia “Trish” Brunnings, Community Support Worker
Patricia “Trish” Brunnings, Community Support Worker
Trish is one of our CSWs, Community Support Workers. She has accompanied many STAPELL customers on outings and is often requested for many of our ladies’ events. When Trish is not working for STAPELL, she is spending time with her two children and husband in the local community.