Fostering Inclusive Employment
by Katie Triplett, Scott Key Center
In a significant stride toward fostering inclusive employment opportunities, Niki Wolf, a dedicated member of the Scott Key Center janitorial enclave for over 15 years, has found a new home at Phoenix Mecano. Phoenix Mecano is a global leader in the development and manufacture of enclosures and industrial components. The journey began last fall when Scott Key Center’s Job Seekers, a monthly vocational workshop that provides employment resources for individuals with disabilities, embarked on a tour of Phoenix Mecano's facility.
During the insightful visit, Tara, Human Resource Manager at Phoenix Mecano, discussed with job developers Marcia Galey and Katie Triplett from Scott Key Center about a potential employment opportunity for the individuals at Scott Key Center. As part of the collaboration, several candidates were initially considered to fill the role previously managed by a cleaning company. However, after conducting an informational interview and a job trial, it became evident that Niki Wolf stood out as the ideal candidate for this job.
Niki officially started her role as the new building janitor at Phoenix Mecano on December 11th, marking a significant milestone in her career. The Phoenix Mecano team was excited to welcome Niki to their team, recognizing her as a valuable addition to their dynamic and inclusive workforce. Richard Poole, Community Support Specialist at Scott Key Center, has been working closely with Eric Kay, Maintenance Technician at Phoenix Mecano, to create a customized work schedule tailored to Niki's abilities and preferences.
This collaborative effort reflects the commitment of both organizations to ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for Niki. Phoenix Mecano's dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment has been evident throughout the entire process. Tara and her team at Phoenix Mecano have been instrumental in facilitating a seamless integration for Niki and demonstrating the company's commitment to Scott Key Center’s mission.
Expressing gratitude for this partnership, Scott Key Center looks forward to furthering the initiative for a more diverse and inclusive work environment in Frederick County. The success story of Niki Wolf at Phoenix Mecano serves as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the positive impact of collaborative efforts in creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Scott Key Center strives to foster an inclusive environment where individuals with disabilities are not only welcomed but recognized for their unique abilities that can enrich the workforce and contribute positively to the community. Scott Key Center continues to advocate for a shift towards recognizing the untapped potential within the community of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.