Weston on the job!
Founded on the principle that all people can work, Work Opportunities Unlimited (WOU) is dedicated to removing the barriers to employment for people with disabilities. Weston has a job he loves because his WOU team did not stop searching until they found the right position for him!
Weston had enjoyed his previous jobs, including as a maintenance assistant and dog caretaker, but what he really wanted to do was work in a warehouse. His Career Resource Specialist Laura Teckman, who has supported Weston since the fall of 2022, says “Weston is a tall, big guy, as his mom says, so physical work and heavy lifting is a good match for him. However, he had been job searching for a long time.” One obstacle was that Weston was looking for part-time work, and not many companies offer part-time warehouse positions. In addition, while there were some job openings near his home and his parents were willing to drive him, it was important to Weston to be independent and use public transportation, and those companies weren’t within his transit area. Laura was determined to find Weston a position where he was happy and where he could commute independently, so the two kept searching. Even as time passed and options dwindled, Weston never lost his positive and hopeful outlook.
Laura presented Weston with an exciting opening at National Fiber Technology in Lawrence, MA, which manufactures custom-made specialized performance fur fabrics, hair, and wigs used by the entertainment market for movies, television, theme parks, theater, and special effects. However, because the company’s facility is not a true warehouse environment, Weston was not sure if it was the right workplace for him. Fortunately, Laura and Weston had the assistance of Jill Fogg, Team Leader for WOU’s Business Development Team. Jill had met with employees at National Fiber Technology, and was able to tell Weston more about the opportunity, which sparked his interest. “After that he wanted to apply, so we did! We wouldn’t have gotten where we did without Jill’s enthusiasm,” shares Laura.
Weston’s first interview with National Fiber Technology was over Zoom. He appreciated being able to meet the staff and get a glimpse of the location from a familiar place: his usual meeting spot with Laura, a local Dunkin’. At the onsite interview, not only did Weston really enjoy the environment, but National Fiber Technology liked Weston and felt he would be a good match for their team. He was offered the production associate position and joined the team in May of 2023!
Weston quickly settled into his new responsibilities. He meticulously sweeps and vacuums the entire facility, removes trash, and waters the plants. He is also on hand to lift heavy objects or reach items on high shelves. “He will do a little bit of anything,” says Laura. “I’ve been observing from afar pretty much right from the start, because of how well he has been doing.” Weston’s success is due in large part to his can-do attitude, but also because the team has been so supportive. For example, Weston wasn’t comfortable using the freight elevator, so he was told he could use a smaller trash bin and use the regular elevator, or carry things down the stairs. “That is why I love National Fiber Technology,” says Laura. “If there was something that he couldn’t do on his own, that was fine. It was a combination of him being willing to give things a try and them being willing to pivot as necessary.”
As Weston celebrates one year of employment at National Fiber Technology, Laura is proud of the growth she has witnessed in him. Weston has gained more independence, physical endurance and strength, confidence, and new friendships. “He’s thriving in his position and his coworkers can’t imagine him not being there,” says Laura. “The entire staff is so nice. They are young and easygoing, so they’re a great match for Weston. Since the beginning, he has felt comfortable and accepted. He has become a valuable member of the team.” Weston is even considering expanding his responsibilities at the company. Laura says, “When he first started, he said he didn’t think he’d ever want to operate the machines, because they scared him, but after talking to another employee who uses the machines, now he is interested! He plans to explore this when an opening becomes available.” Kim Clark, one of the company’s owners, says, “Weston’s enthusiasm and willingness to learn new things has made him a great team player. Everyone feels comfortable asking him to help if needed. We are proud to say that Weston is part of our team.”
Recently Weston applied for a housing lottery in a building being renovated for apartments on the same grounds as National Fiber Technology, and he got a spot! Weston is excited to live independently, and he will have an enviable commute. “I remember one conversation we had in my car on the way home from doing some job searching. He talked about being able to one day move out on his own. It fills me with a lot of happiness for him that that is coming true!” Laura shares. “Weston is a great guy, and I’m just thrilled how far he has come.”
