DDI Staff and Student smiling in the pool

#NDEAM Check-In with Josh Stuart

As National Disability Employment Awareness Month comes to a close, we did a little check-in with Josh Stuart to see how he was doing with his job at Home Depot. While we chatted, he was on his way to a Self-Advocacy Association of New York State (SANYS) Statewide Conference in Albany.

Josh, currently a participant in DDI’s Supported Employment Program, has been working for Home Depot for almost three years now. He still loves his role as a part-time cashier and still loves the Garden Department. He now also works at self-checkout, and he couldn’t be happier. He aspires to become a part-time head cashier as he continues his employment with Home Depot.

“I love helping people find what they need,” said Josh. He is often met with people telling him that the world needs more workers like him because he is so helpful and friendly.

Home Depot is not where it ends for Josh, though. He is very busy with personal work ventures of his own, making and selling soap and fragrances, running an online radio station and even doing some DJ work on the side, too!

“I always keep my mind busy,” shared Josh. That is evident in his actions! As far as his future goes, well, the sky’s the limit for Josh. He brings so much to the workforce table with all of his experience and passion. He is an absolute asset to his employer and an outstanding role model for anyone looking to enter the world of employment.