L to R: Jennifer Roman, Martha Cortes, Ryan Mountain
(Methuen, MA) Martha Cortes, a Career Resource Specialist on the Merrimack Valley Team, was recently presented a Success at Work award by Ryan Mountain during a team meeting. She was nominated for the award by Director Jennifer Roman. Since the award’s inception in 2000, Work Opportunities Unlimited (WOU) has presented the Success at Work award to honor and recognize team members who have delivered outstanding service consistent with the company’s core values.
Martha’s dedication to her clients is exemplified in her successful placement and retention of two individuals at the same employer. One individual worked at a grocery store but wished to secure additional employment with room for growth in a kitchen environment. Through proactive outreach and employer engagement, Martha built a partnership with management at a local college’s catering department, where the individual was placed in a catering role that aligned with his goals. He is thriving at both of his positions with Martha’s continued onsite support. Another individual had prior experience as a dietary aide and a strong desire to advance in his foodservice career. Leveraging her established relationship with the employer, Martha was able to secure placement for this individual in the catering department as well – an ideal next step in his career. Martha’s persistence, creativity, and commitment to collaboration resulted not only in two successful placements, but in sustained employment, growth, and long-term employer partnerships.
Jennifer states that she nominated Martha for the award “in recognition of the exceptional impact she has had on her clients’ employment and personal development, as well as her deep commitment to the individuals she serves. Her impact extends far beyond placements – she creates sustainable success stories that reflect the highest standards of our mission and values here at WOU.”
