JOSE’: Job-related Injury Leads to More Education, New Field

Jose’ was successfully working as a machinist, manufacturing equipment used in the poultry industry. The depression and alcoholism that he struggled with daily had not spilled over into his work --- the one area of his life in which he felt competent and in control. 

This all ended the same year he injured his back lifting a 20-foot I-beam onto the table of a reciprocating saw. Jose’s personal and employment life suffered as his daily routine became driven by surgery, physical therapy, and work restrictions. “My alcoholism and depression intensified,” Jose’ said.

 

There is a humble undercurrent to Jose’ as he speaks of his history, not as a victim, but as a person traveling a difficult road.This roller coaster of frustrating attempts at employment, depression, and alcoholism ended in his arrest, after being found in an alcohol blackout. Jose’ knew he had hit rock bottom. At this point, he describes a spiritual awakening.

 

This spirituality is most important to Jose’ and manifests itself in his gentle nature, kindness, and desire to give back. He sincerely hopes his story is beneficial to others. After compensating the legal system, Jose’ was sent to a homeless shelter with the mandate that he get a job. “I walked three blocks, found a job using a fork lift, and went back to let the staff at the shelter know. “Something about the job did not fit with their policies and procedures, so I was sent to another shelter,” Jose’ said. “I found a job in the newspaper at a machinery shop.”

 

The boss there was very supportive. He has a son with some problems, and he thought I might be able to talk to the son about what I’d been through and help him. I began going to a technical school at night and got my certification as a computer tech.” 

 

This accomplishment positioned him to fulfill a dream that he had had for awhile --- obtaining employment in the computer industry. He became involved with Vocational Rehabilitation Services and the local One-Stop Career Center, where he received assistance in obtaining employment in the computer industry. Over the next several years, he worked in various positions installing digital prescriber lines and as a field service technician.

 

Due to the changes in the company, closings, and layoffs, Jose’ began thinking about self-employment as a way to have more control over his work. He continued to pursue his dream with the assistance of the VR agency, the local One-Stop, and a job coach.

 

VR services provided funding for additional training, transportation, medical needs, computer equipment and office supplies. Funding through an Office of Disability and Employment Policy – Customized Employment grant allowed him to purchase training through the local micro-enterprise center, personal support, advertising, and short-term office rent. The One-Stop provided on-site resources for information and searches. Jose’ has found his niche. He has one employee and offers all manner of computer sales and services.