The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., located in Seattle, Washington, has a successful partnership with AbilityOne. The organization is a “private, not-for-profit social enterprise providing employment, support, and training opportunities for individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, or blind with other disabilities.”
The Lighthouse for the Blind produces many of the products and supplies used by governmental locations, facilities, and offices. It also provides employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or have low vision.
What is AbilityOne?
The AbilityOne program was established by the federal government in response to the needs of the federal government and military contracting initiatives created by the 1938 Wagner-O’Day Act. The program is among the nation’s largest employers of Americans with disabilities.
The program coordinates all levels of Made in America government-related services and contracting. It not only creates private sector jobs in every state for people who are blind or have significant disabilities but also offers organizations opportunities to partner with the program.
To demonstrate the partnership’s accomplishments, we are sharing two success stories. These two individuals have each been recognized as Employee of the Year, thanks to the Seattle Lighthouse’s support through the AbilityOne program.
Gregory Wilson: An Employment Story
Gregory Wilson works in manufacturing. His work ethic, attention to detail, and reliability quickly earned him a promotion to Setup Specialist for the Defense business line within his first year of employment.
Gregory’s responsibilities as a Setup Specialist include managing and maintaining workstations, ensuring quality assurance, and performing other duties.
For Gregory, working at the Lighthouse has been life-changing. He speaks about the importance of belonging, describing the work environment as a place where he feels connected to a team that supports each other. “It feels like family,” he says, noting that the job has given him a sense of pride and stability. Gregory appreciates the opportunity to provide for his wife and two children, knowing that his job at the Lighthouse ensures his family’s financial security.
Antonio Rozier, IT Systems Director
Antonio Rozier’s role at the Lighthouse allows him to directly impact the lives of his peers, ensuring that accessibility is a priority in the organization’s technological decisions.
As the IT Systems Director, Antonio plays a crucial role in shaping the organization’s technology strategy, ensuring that systems and software are accessible to all employees, including people who are blind or low vision.
You’re Invited: Employment Connections
To learn more about AbilityOne employment opportunities nationwide from Shawn Dobbs, Vice President of Administration at Seattle Lighthouse, and to hear from Gregory and Antonio, join APH CareerConnect for Employment Connections on May 8, 2025, at 5:00 pm Eastern. Register here for Employment Connections.