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In recent years, technology improvements have made translation easier between those who use ASL and those who speak. However, more than 50% of Deaf Americans do not work due to obstacles to obtaining employment, despite their qualifications. PRIDE Industries offers job training and placement services to help applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing to overcome employment barriers and progress in their careers.

 

Monica Salazar was one such individual. “I was working at a job manufacturing garments, but was laid off when business slowed down. Looking for a new job is a struggle since I am Deaf and communicate via American Sign Language (ASL). Communication was a barrier – even in getting an interview, I was out of work for half a year and began struggling financially.”

 

To overcome these challenges, Monica sought help from the Texas Workforce Commission’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services; her counselor suggested that she enroll at PRIDE Ascend in El Paso, TX.

Job Training and Placement for People with Disabilities

PRIDE Ascend was created to meet the growing demand for skilled labor and help people with disabilities overcome employment barriers. The program helps people with disabilities gain technical skills and earn industry-based certifications in El Paso, TX, and Sacramento, CA.

 

Participants receive an assessment and meet with PRIDE’s dedicated staff to explore career interests and job placement and training opportunities. Each individual receives accommodations, training, and instruction tailored to their needs to ensure workplace success.

 

Monica graduated the program with an NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) certificate in Construction Technology. She also earned an OSHA 10 Safety Card. Once she obtained the certificate, Ascend’s Employment Services staff placed Monica into a paid internship at the Hampton Inn, which was made possible by generous donors to PRIDE Industries Development and Donor Services.

 

“After making the connection and sharing information about PRIDE’s job training and placement services, Hampton Inn’s General Manager Gabe Ayoub was very enthusiastic about having Monica as an intern,” said Sezne Hernandez, Employment Placement Specialist.

Ongoing Training and Support after Placement

During her internship, Monica vacuumed the halls, cleaned restrooms, maintained the swimming pool area and gym, did laundry, and more. She excelled in this welcoming environment, and after her 90-day internship, Monica was hired on the spot as a Houseman. In addition to her internship tasks, she uses her construction skills performing maintenance in guest rooms, painting, and caulking.

 

Along the way, PRIDE Ascend’s job training and placement services were available to Monica. She received resources and encouragement as she transitioned into her full-time position from her internship.

 

“PRIDE Ascend’s support helped me be successful in my classes, allowing me to obtain a certificate and to gain the skills that I use today in my job,” said Monica. “Through the internship, I was able to learn a lot, and my job coach helped me transition into my new position, which eventually led me to getting hired permanently!

 

From the support of PRIDE Ascend and my co-workers, I have found success. Through overcoming the challenges of entering a new career field, I have become more motivated and will continue working hard to achieve my goals, including obtaining my driver’s license and buying a vehicle, as I currently take public transportation. I am working to become a supervisor in my department and saving to buy a house.”

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Monica Salazar and Hampton Inn’s General Manager Gabe Ayoub

“To facilitate communication, he posted a chart with signs for the ASL alphabet, and immediately had all the staff learn how to sign Monica’s name in ASL, as well as 'good morning' and 'good evening' so she would feel welcomed and as a part of the team.”

For more than 20 years, Robert Teaff owned a swimming pool cleaning business. He encountered personal hardship and found himself facing homelessness. With a learning disability and limited resources, he sought assistance from PRIDE Industries’ career coaching services in the hopes of re-entering the workforce with a long-term career.  

Comprehensive Career Coaching Services

“I learned about PRIDE Industries while job searching on my own,” said Robert. “The mission to create jobs for people with disabilities and the opportunities for advancement all convinced me that it was a great company to work for. Through my Department of Rehabilitation Counselor, I was referred to PRIDE Industries’ Employment Services Office in Woodland, CA, in Spring 2019.”

At PRIDE Industries Robert connected with job coach Alissa Villegas to shape the skills needed to re-enter the job market, starting with building his resume from scratch.“When I first came to PRIDE Industries, I didn’t even have a resume, since I had never needed one,” Robert shared. With help from Alissa, he built his resume, honed his computer skills, and showcased his abilities to potential employers.

To help Robert reach his goal of working for PRIDE Industries, Alissa contacted PRIDE’s Recruiter at the Sacramento International Airport to recommend a job interview. In June 2019, Robert aced the interview and the recruiter hired him as a Custodian. “I felt so happy when I heard that I got the job; it was the best feeling in the world,” said Robert.

Job Coaches Dedicated to Post-Search Success

Once an applicant successfully searches for and lands a job, PRIDE Industries’ career services team provides ongoing support. This support ensures lasting success and satisfaction for the employee. 

 

HR Representative and Case Manager Tameka Rich and Job Coach John Edwards arranged job coaching sessions. These sessions checked in on Roberts progress at his new job. After only a month, Robert was already receiving comments through PRIDE’s First-Class Customer Service Program regarding his excellent work. 

 

“I feel appreciated and enjoy getting praised for what I do,” said Robert. “I am often thanked by people for cleaning the bathrooms so well and told that they are the cleanest they’ve ever seen.”

 

The following comment in particular called out Robert’s thoughtfulness:

 

“I have a temporary disability and needed to use the restroom, which was closed for cleaning. I asked through the taped-off section if the custodian could come to the entrance. After Robert saw I had a disability, he opened it up for me to use. This courtesy demonstrated Robert going above and beyond to accommodate me.”

 

Robert loves his job and is enthusiastic about his bright future. “I am proud to represent PRIDE Industries at the Sacramento Airport,” he said. “Without their help, I’d still be looking for a job today! My new goal is to work my way up to a custodial lead or supervisor, or possibly a job coach to help others with disabilities succeed in their jobs. With the earnings from this new job, I am also saving up money for a new apartment for my family and cat.”

“My job means everything to me. It’s the heart of my life. I feel worthy and confident.”

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PRIDE’s Job Developers assess each client’s strengths, abilities, and career interests to help make job placements through community employer connections.
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“Despite my learning disability and being out of the formal job market for so long, I found that getting back in was an easy experience!”

With motivation and drive, as well as the support of on-the-job training programs, John Miller Madrid rapidly built his career. Soon after graduating from high school, he started working as an Associate at Amazon’s Sort Center in San Bernardino, CA. “Before starting my job, I worked with my uncle in his mechanic shop, helping fix cars and cleaning the shop,” said John. “I enjoyed working with cars and started considering commercial driving as a career field.”

 

John desired to grow in his role at Amazon while working toward his goal of earning a CDL. To this end, John sought on-the-job training and support from PRIDE Industries. Ultimately, the support helped him succeed while making the workplace accessible in light of his learning disability.

After the Hire: On-the-Job Training Programs for Long-Term Success

As an Alternative Workforce Supplier for Amazon, PRIDE Industries partners with the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). In this role, PRIDE places referred candidates with disabilities into warehouse associate positions across California. To ensure success, PRIDE’s team of job coaches provides training, encouragement, and career advice.

 

John began working at the Amazon Sort Center in San Bernardino, CA. There, he categorized customer orders by their destination in the Southern California region. Next, he consolidated the orders onto trucks for rapid delivery. This incredibly fast-paced job requires accuracy and attention to detail.

 

“From the beginning, PRIDE’s staff provided beneficial training, and their on-site assistance gave me reassurance that someone was always there to help me,” said John. “I have auditory processing disorder (a learning disability that impacts the brain’s ability to filter and interpret sounds), which can make listening difficult. With their help, I learned quickly, and soon my managers knew that they could rely on me.”

 

John quickly proved his skills and earned a promotion. He then began to work with inbound and outbound delivery. Notably, his manager nominated him for the Top Performer Award in 2018 for hard work and willingness to help his team.

From Training to Moving Ahead

Meanwhile, John didn’t forget about his love of cars and his ultimate career goal.

 

“John had originally expressed an interest in working with vehicles, and we encouraged him to work towards a commercial driving position,” said PRIDE Employment Relationship Coordinator Mayra De Alba-Cajas. “The perfect opportunity appeared in 2019 when John applied and was hired for a Yard Hostler position due to his excellent performance record.” (A yard hostler directs vehicles at parking or docking areas to move, position, or park trucks or trailers.) 

 

During hostler training, John worked in the yard shack to supervise night shift trucks. After completing his training, he took responsibility for organizing semi-trailers in the yard. 

 

In 2019, funded by Amazon, John earned his CDL and began working as a truck driver with C.R. England. He thanked Amazon and PRIDE Industries for helping him reach his career goals. 

Need employment placement support?

Contact our I AM ABLE Helpline to discuss your options.
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John Miller Madrid
John Miller Madrid

”Working at Amazon has changed my life. I have developed a career track and improved my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.”

My name is Raul V. Gutierrez. I am from New York City, NY, just turned 47, and am a service-connected, disabled Veteran. While serving in Iraq, I became wounded and received the Purple Heart along with several other medals. As a Combat Engineer, I was regularly involved in conflict and fighting but would gladly do it all over again.

 

I joined the U.S. Army in October 2003. I had always wanted to join, but three reasons finally inspired me to enlist: first, in honor of my friend, Nereida Dejesus, who was killed on September 11, 2001, in the Twin Towers. This was a very sad day, not only for me but for the whole country and especially for the families of all who were lost.

 

The second reason was to better support my son and family. I was struggling in New York City, working three jobs to help support the oldest of my five kids. He is now 24 years old and is studying biology in college.

 

The final reason for enlisting was that I felt like I wasn’t accomplishing anything even though I was working so hard. So, I decided to join in honor of my friend, to support the country that I love so much, and for my family.

 

The most significant adjustment to Army life was that at 31, I was an older recruit. Many young people that I met were not as motivated as I was; I believe that I helped change their attitudes though!

 

I worked as a Combat Engineer, performing construction and demolition tasks under combat conditions, checking the roadways for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assisting with the movement and support of our troops. This job was incredibly dangerous, but someone had to do it; I loved that I genuinely made a difference and kept everyone safe.

 

I deployed to Iraq three times; the first tour was from Jan 2005 to Feb 2006. While in the green zone (the heavily fortified governmental center) it was safe but when we traveled out to clear roads, it was a different story. During a road survey in 2005, we ran into a large IED. I received shrapnel wounds and experienced severe disorientation. Unfortunately, our Staff Sgt, Ronell Bradley, had lost both of his legs in the attack. Helping him to safety that day was a huge accomplishment, but I experienced a lot of guilt. Later that year, my company, Company E, Task Force 4-64 Armor, 4th Brigade (combat) won the Itschner award (for the best Engineer Company in the army).

 

[Raul Gutierrez lives with loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage; it has been my privilege to know him for over ten years. Raul was a devoted and loyal soldier who supported the leadership and his fellow soldiers. As his squad leader, I saw him put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and his fellow soldiers before his own with impeccable integrity and personal courage; Raul has and is one of the main reasons why I am still alive today. While serving together in Baghdad, Iraq, our vehicle was hit by an Improvised Explosive Device. I sustained life-threatening injuries and lost both legs and part of my right hand. Raul risked his life to save mine by getting me out of the vehicle so that I could receive medical treatment. His dedication, leadership, and motivation reflect distinct credit upon himself, the United States Army, and the United States of America. -Sergeant Ronell Bradley]

 

For my second tour, I was stationed at FOB Falcon outside of Baghdad from October 2007 through December 2008. Our company was mortared daily, and we often had to run for cover. I went back for a final tour to Iraq from August 2010 to July 2011 and was promoted to Staff Sergeant squad leader, managing ten soldiers and several vehicles.

 

I was medically discharged from the military in 2014 and moved to El Paso, TX. The transition to civilian life was stressful; I felt lost, alone, confused, and in need of a purpose. I would occasionally still get up in the morning and put my uniform on. Certain loud noises and landscapes, like the desert of El Paso, brought up strong memories and emotions of being in Iraq. Interaction with civilians was difficult since they often do not have the same sense of duty.

 

Re-entering the civilian workforce was a challenge; I applied for jobs everywhere, for over a year, with no results. I think my military background hurt my chances because many businesses don’t understand how to support veterans, especially those with disabilities or PTSD, nor do they bother to try. One day, my brother-in-law told me they were hiring at PRIDE Industries, where he worked.

 

I would often call PRIDE’s HR department and speak to AbilityOne Recruiter Cynthia Baca. She was helpful and told me that she would call with any new openings. Eventually, I got a call from HR Assistant, Hilda Loera, for an interview on the same day my wife and I had gotten the keys to our home. I couldn’t believe it, what were the chances? I went to Ft. Bliss that week and got the job.

 

I was hired as a General Maintenance Worker (GMW) in the Facilities West department and moved up to GMW/Estimator in the Facilities East department; March 7th, 2019 was my third anniversary! I love my job, especially getting to work with young soldiers. My army lingo slips at times, but it helps solidify my work relationships with them. Now, whenever I go to the barracks, I use military lingo and get the job done, or I’ll challenge them to push-ups. I haven’t lost a challenge yet and have the video to prove it!

 

Working with PRIDE has been a godsend. My disabilities from wartime service include PTSD, lower back and knee issues; resulting in chronic pain, stress-triggered headaches, short-term memory loss, and trouble focusing. I’ve met so many people with many different disabilities that I don’t feel alone, confused, or that I need to hide; I feel at home.

 

PRIDE is different from other companies, and with the support I receive, I am inspired to do my best. There’s nothing better than feeling comfortable in your own skin, especially at a job where you’re not looked at differently because of a disability. My supervisor understands my goals and accommodations and provides me with flexibility to attend my appointments at the VA Hospital.

 

I love getting up in the morning and coming to work. It helps so much to have other veterans around because we understand each other so well. I have a lovely home and family in El Paso and do not plan to go anywhere else. I would love to further my knowledge of my trade and career and move up into management with my own office so I can hang my NY Giants, NY Knicks, and NY Yankees banners on the walls (since there are too many Dallas fans around here!).

 

PRIDE provides meaning, for myself and other colleagues with disabilities.

Are you a veteran?

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Raul Gutierrez in army uniform
Raul Gutierrez joined the U.S. Army in October 2003

“PRIDE is different from other companies, and with the support I receive, I am inspired to do my best.”

After graduating high school in southern Michigan, Veronica Arquette moved out and found a job at a record store. She felt it was an amazing experience, but eventually, she wanted to do something different with her life.

To embark on a new adventure, Veronica Arquette joined the U.S. Air Force in May 2001 as a young adult, enlisting as a Security Forces member (the Air Force military police). After attending basic training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX, she deployed to Okinawa, Japan, as part of the 18th Security Forces Squadron.

“Living in Japan was an adjustment at first, but it was wonderful getting to learn about Okinawa and Japanese culture. I also got the chance to meet people from many different countries.”

“After four years of serving abroad in 2005, I decided to end my service as an E-4 Senior Airman because there were no options to advance. I returned home to Michigan to decide my future, and after a short decision period, I decided to enlist again.”

In 2007, Veronica joined the U.S. Army as a Human Resources Specialist, managing awards, vacation, and pay for the soldiers. She deployed to a variety of countries including Cuba, South Korea, and Afghanistan. “Afghanistan was an intense experience – I had been recently promoted to Sergeant and was responsible for moving soldiers to different bases across the country. During these 14 months, we all had to concentrate on keeping safe together daily.”

“The highlight of my service is when I returned home in 2011 from Afghanistan to Ft. Campbell, KY. It felt incredible getting off the plane and seeing my mom, dad, and sister, knowing I had made it safely home to them.”

Two years later in 2013, Veronica retired from the military as an E-6 Staff Sergeant due to Snapping Scapula Syndrome, which affects the back and shoulders. “I acquired this disability from carrying too much weight while deployed; it unfortunately still often affects my day to day activities.”

“My following transition to civilian life was hard. Since my husband (who I had met in the Army) is still on active duty, I had to start the job hunt all over again. Finding a good job is a challenge since competition is fierce around military bases, especially among military spouses who also had to relocate. I have the most supportive husband, but it was still a difficult time for me.”

Fortunately, Veronica joined PRIDE’s Fort Polk contract in 2017 as a Human Resources Assistant after moving there in 2016. “I knew that it was going to be a challenge to find a job position in such a rural area; due to my experience, employers often told me that I was overqualified. However, PRIDE Industries gave me a chance that I never thought I would get.”

“Today, nothing brings me more joy than my husband, dogs, and helping the employees at PRIDE Industries; it feels like an extension of my military service.” 

As a retired soldier, Veronica is expertly able to navigate through military protocols and help other veteran employees and those with disabilities, including with procedures such as family medical leave act (FMLA), payroll and direct deposit, and medical plans.

“Even though I am now working as a civilian, I enjoy being connected to the military. I appreciate the opportunity more than words can say.”

“My advice for any veteran that is experiencing troubles with transitioning is not to give up! You often can feel stuck adjusting to a new career and lifestyle, but there are so many resources and other veterans who will reach out and help you.”

Are you a veteran?

Contact our Veterans Employment Advantage Program for support.
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“My advice for any veteran that is experiencing troubles with transitioning is not to give up! ”

PRIDE Industries has provided the Los Angeles, CA County Internal Services Department (LA-ISD) with Environmental and Custodial services since February 2012. Initial responsibilities covered several city regions that encompass 265 county buildings and 7.2 million square feet, including the Los Angeles County Sherriff’s Department, the Department of Public Social Services, health care facilities, courthouses, and probation facilities. PRIDE’s contract expanded to include 51 LA County Libraries, an additional 626,748 square feet.

 

To ensure the highest level of service for our customers, PRIDE utilizes a comprehensive Quality Control Plan; an essential part is the efforts of PRIDE’s employees to provide first-class customer service. This commitment was recently shown in March 2019, when PRIDE assisted the Wilmington Health Clinic in Los Angeles Region 4 to pass their DHS (Dept of Health Services) inspection with a 98% rate.

 

“The audit results are a significant accomplishment for the County of Los Angeles and PRIDE Industries, as well as a benefit to the Wilmington neighborhood,” said PRIDE’s Senior Regional Manager Jeremiah Goldberg. “These results become public record and affects the clinic’s financial standing and their ability to offer healthcare services to the community.”

 

The following is a comment from the LA-ISD customer:

 

 “All of us at the Department of Health Services, Wilmington Health Center, thank you Los Angeles County ISD and PRIDE Industries for taking part in preparing our clinic for the March 5, 2019 3-year Facility Site Review/Audits through LA Care Health Plan, which is the most comprehensive audit that we have for our outpatient sites.

 

“Happily, we announce that we scored 98% for the portion of our Facility Review.  We earned this score, in part due to the hard work performed by our PRIDE Day Porter, Gloria Diaz De Raya, and for the recent one-time custodial care work performed by PRIDE’s custodians.”

 

“Gloria Diaz De Raya is a perfect example of first-class service; she joined PRIDE 4 years ago and has continuously gone above and beyond in her work,” said Senior Regional Manager Jeremiah Goldberg. “Her assistance during the DHS audit is a testament to her dedication and exceptional work ethic. Our Region 4 floor technician teams also worked hard to conduct floor care throughout the entire facility and pressure wash the exterior of the building in preparation for the audit.”

 

“I also want to acknowledge PRIDE’s Custodial Supervisor Jose Gonzalez who was present at the audit to answer any questions. Everyone involved, including Custodial Manager Aldo Trejo, has done an incredible job strengthening our presence in Southern California.”

Need help with Inspection?

PRIDE Industries offers a full range of facility support services, competitively priced and designed to leverage state-of-the art products and techniques. Our CIMS-GB vendor certification has enabled our customers to achieve LEED Platinum ratings from the U.S. Green Building Council.
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“Gloria Diaz De Raya is a perfect example of first-class service; she joined PRIDE 4 years ago and has continuously gone above and beyond in her work”