VR at Work

Montana Vocational Rehabilitation partnered with state apprenticeship program to support electrical and plumbing apprentices who completed hands-on training but struggled with education requirements due to disabilities. In Billings, MT, apprentices and supervisors met with a Voc Rehab Business Services Specialist to identify challenges and accommodations—many of which employers were unaware they were already providing. These apprentices and employers now receive ongoing support through Voc Rehab Business Services. One apprentice from GPS Electric, who had previously failed the journeyman test, received accommodations and passed in April, later becoming a residential project manager. His success highlights the impact of tailored support. Currently, 12 apprentices across Montana are being assisted, by the Voc Rehab Business Services Specialist—also a certified rehabilitation counselor—able to sign off on accommodations. This collaboration continues to strengthen pathways for apprentices and employers alike.

Macy Munderloh, a West Point High School student, was introduced to Nebraska VR during her junior year. With a learning disability that made it difficult to stay focused, she worked with Pre-Employment Transition Services Coordinator Misti Halsey on self-advocacy, communication, and workplace readiness.

Through VR, Macy explored career options with job shadows at Graybeal’s Food and Hy-Vee Dollar Fresh before beginning a work-based learning experience at Hillside Villa Nursing Home. There, she served meals, worked in laundry, and helped in the kitchen. “It felt great, and I liked it a lot. I liked that I could meet new people that I can trust,” Macy shared.

Her dedication impressed supervisors, who offered her a job. Today, Macy proudly serves residents at Hillside Villa.

Nate Sears always knew he wanted a career connected to the outdoors. As a senior at Lyons-Decatur Northeast High School, he connected with Nebraska VR and began working with Pre-Employment Transition Services Coordinator Misti Hasley. Knowing Nate’s passion for hunting and fishing, Misti suggested a Work-Based Learning Experience (WBLE) at Pheasant Bonanza, a hunting and fishing lodge.

With support from a skills trainer, Nate tackled tasks like feeding and watering dogs, cleaning pens, trimming weeds, filling clay pigeon machines, and replacing mulch for baby pheasants. Determined to make a good impression, Nate worked hard and impressed lodge owner Trent Leichleiter.

Alongside the hands-on work, Nate built skills in budgeting, communication, problem-solving, and self-advocacy. His part-time role became a full-time job after graduation, giving him steady employment close to home, opportunities to learn taxidermy, and the independence to build a life around his passions.

Nate proves that when passion meets opportunity, success is within reach.

Edgar Cañas first connected with VR Nevada as a high school student with a disability, eager to find a path toward his future. With consistent counseling and guidance, he was encouraged to finish high school, continue his education, and pursue his goals. Step by step, Edgar advanced from community college to earning his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Along the way, he participated in a soft skills workshop to strengthen his ability to communicate with employers and prepare for career success. Today, Edgar is working with VR Nevada’s Internal Job Team to secure employment through the 700 Hour Program, which provides individuals with valuable work experience and a pathway to permanent employment with the State of Nevada. With his degree, determination, and support from VR, Edgar is well on his way to achieving his career dreams.

Five years ago, Hillsborough Township hired Paul Scaltro, a visually impaired audio producer, to modernize communications through podcasts. His deep voice and storytelling skills quickly made the podcasts a community favorite. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Paul transitioned to the Health Department, where he supported contact tracing and outreach. With accommodations from the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, he excelled in this new role, using assistive technology to navigate databases and communicate effectively. Praised for his adaptability, empathy, and professionalism, Paul became a vital part of the pandemic response team and is now a permanent member of the Health Department, contributing to public health programming and education. Reflecting on his journey, Paul shared: “I believe it’s important for everyone to take a moment to celebrate their accomplishments. Too often, we focus on the negatives and overlook the milestones we’ve achieved… None of this would be possible without the team behind me, it truly takes a village.” His story proves that inclusion and accessibility remove barriers, enabling individuals to thrive and strengthening entire communities.

Lawrence Locker is a dedicated employee at Clayton Lake State Park, where he maintains the grounds, hosts star gazing parties, and helps visitors enjoy the outdoors. Before losing his sight in 2014, Lawrence worked as a ranch hand and a truck driver, building a strong work ethic and love for the outdoors that continue to guide him today.

With support from the New Mexico Commission for the Blind, he has gained the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful work doing what he loves. The Commission has assisted him with schooling, therapeutic counseling, and learning to use assistive technology like his phone, computer, and email; all tools that help him thrive on the job. His advice to others who are blind or low vision: “Don’t give up…It’s just a part of your life, you have to learn to cope with. Through the help of the Commission, it will all get better.” Noting that although he lost his sight in 2014, he did not begin therapeutic counseling until 2024, and now wishes he had started sooner, calling it life changing. Today, Lawrence is proud to work independently in a job that brings him purpose and pride.

Consumer Name: Debbie Goldston

I was born with cone dystrophy. For years, I managed my condition while working, determined to maintain my independence and career. 

I found out I needed glasses to enhance my vision. Unfortunately, without health insurance, I could not afford them. The doctor at Duke recommended NC Services for the Blind to help accommodate me with these glasses. 

I contacted DSB and Britney Hodges, a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, became my counselor with NC Services for the Blind. 

“Britney was so helpful, knowledgeable, and understanding.”

I received the glasses that were needed, low vision tools and guidance and counseling on career goals.

When discussing future goals, I told Britney that I wanted to work for a place that was “meaningful.”  

Several months later, I was working with NC Services for the Blind and have been there for 6 years and absolutely love my job with NC Services for the Blind.

My name is Veronica Puente, and I started my journey with N.C. Division Services for the Blind (DSB) in 2011. I went to community college, and though it took a while to finish my degree due to medical issues, I graduated in December of 2014. I then went to Meredith College, where I graduated with my BA in International Relations in May of 2017. It took me time to find my path, and DSB helped me throughout this process. I volunteered with children and discovered my love for teaching! In May of 2024 I graduated with a master’s in teaching with a focus on Visually Impairments from North Carolina Central University. Now I am the braille teacher for the Governor Morehead School for the Blind in Raleigh North Carolina. 

When Angela Ferebee came to work for North Carolina’s Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities, she knew that she was a natural helper, and she knew that she wanted to serve her community. What she couldn’t know was that a head-on car crash and the devastating injuries that resulted from it would put her on the receiving end of the services she’s dedicated her life to providing others.

After nine months of recuperation, healing and support from her own agency, Angela, the Unit Manager for EIPD’s Elizabeth City office, was able to return to work. 

“I know how much our services mean to our clients, because I’ve used these services,” she said.

A catastrophic boating accident left Thomas Duty III unable to walk and with limited use of his arms. The sudden change ended his career in law enforcement, but with the support of the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (@nceipd), Thomas began to see new possibilities. Vocational rehabilitation services encouraged him to pursue education and channel his background in criminal justice into a new path.

Before his accident, Thomas served as an officer with the Emerald Isle Police Department. Afterward, with determination and support, he earned his master’s degree along with graduate certificates in criminal justice education and in public management and leadership.

In May 2024, Thomas graduated, and just three months later, he stepped into the classroom as an adjunct instructor. Today, he teaches in the Criminal Justice & Criminology Department at East Carolina University. His story proves that resilience and education can transform even the greatest challenges into new opportunities.