Fostering a Culture of Inclusion E24
In this episode, host David Steinmetz introduces Jules Hyde, whose journey into supporting employment for individuals with disabilities is shaped by a passion for empowering others to pursue meaningful work. Hyde shares personal anecdotes and insights into implementing the philosophy of Employment First, advocating for individuals with disabilities to pursue their career aspirations.
Throughout the conversation, Steinmetz and Hyde delve into the significance of finding fulfillment in work and the transformative potential of providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to pursue their interests and talents. They discuss the barriers faced by both employers and job seekers with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of setting high expectations and fostering a supportive environment for success. Ultimately, the episode underscores the value of inclusive employment practices and the profound impact of empowering individuals with disabilities to thrive in the workforce.
“As an employer of choice, Arizona Industries for the Blind provides independence and promotes a more diverse and equitable workplace. In every line of business AIB team members with disabilities work alongside those without disabilities, earning competitive wages and receiving comparable benefits,” said Steinmetz.
The Association of People Supporting Employment First Arizona Chapter is a volunteer group of disability advocates that promote ideas, changes, and programs that provide more equality in employment for people living with disabilities.
Jules Hyde has been working in disability related employment for eleven years. he is currently an Employment Specialist with ASD Maverick Consulting where he specializes in assisting individuals with disabilities to find, obtain, learn and independently be successful in the job or career of their choosing. He provides one-on-one training tailored to the needs of the employee and employer.
Prior to joining Maverick Consulting, he was with a local nonprofit where he started an employment program that grew from three locations serving eight families to one that included over twenty locations serving over fifty families.
As a director of employment services, he committed to dissolving traditional employment programs to adopt new strategies driven by the Employment First philosophy. That is, competitive, integrated employment is the expectation for all adults, with or without a disability, and to prioritize employment as the primary daily activity. Employment in integrated settings in the community, working side by side, earning competitive wages and benefits, and be of the person’s choosing.
He also volunteers by serving as Vice President of the Arizona Chapter of the Association of People Supporting Employment First.
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About Your Host
As the manager of Community and Public Relations, David Steinmetz uses his expertise, education, and personal experiences to “change the perception of blindness.”
Diagnosed with RP, a blinding retinal disease, at the age of 19, David uses his personal story to drive change that leads to improved employment outcomes and community integration for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Mr. Steinmetz graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Economics. Additionally, Steinmetz has continued his education by graduating from the Business Management Training (BMT) program provided by Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia.
In 2008, David was the national recipient of the National Industries for the Blind Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement award. This prestigious award recognized Mr. Steinmetz for his career achievements and community service work.
David Steinmetz is a member of the Governors’ Council on Blindness & Visual Impairments, is a Board Member at the Arizona Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired (ACBVI) and serves his community through the Chandler Lions Club.
Connect with David on LinkedIn and Instagram.
About the Show
Changing the Perception of Blindness; One Conversation at a Time is dedicated to breaking down barriers, de-mystifying blindness and promoting real world solutions that empower people who are blind to live a full and inclusive life.
Host, David Steinmetz connects with organizations, industry professionals and thought leaders who are working to bridge the gap that creates a world accessible for all.
About Arizona Industries for the Blind
Arizona Industries for the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people who are blind. It’s employees, more than half of whom are blind, deliver a variety of products and services, including a full-service Warehousing and Distribution Center, confidential Digital Data Scan (DDS) services for private businesses and government and the operation of Base Supply Centers located at each of Arizona’s three military bases under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Labor’s AbilityOne program.
