Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month
When Clayton Bowery moved back to his hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, he had a dream: to be near the lake, spend more time with family, and build a life centered around health and purpose.
After a spinal surgery that left him battling nerve issues and chronic back pain, Clayton had gone through many different jobs, nearly all of which required him to wear a back brace. That is, until he found MDI.
“This was one of the first jobs I haven’t needed a back brace for in 10 to 15 years,” he says. That alone made it a game-changer.
Clayton discovered MDI the day he moved back home. A quick internet search led him to an opening, and within days, he had submitted his application and was hired. He started in production and has steadily moved forward ever since.
Today, he’s a Process Tech Apprentice, a role that combines technical know-how with fast thinking and leadership. He’s learning how to run production lines, manage documentation, troubleshoot issues, and adjust operations on the fly.
“I like that things can go wrong, and I get to problem-solve quickly. That challenge is what keeps me going.”
For Clayton, growth has come not just through opportunity but through community. “I really like the shift I’m on. We’ve got a good team. Everyone’s willing to help each other out, and that makes all the difference.”
Outside of work, Clayton’s passions keep him grounded. He’s a dedicated Vikings fan, a fisherman at Big Split Hand Lake, and the family grill master, often cooking meals for his grandma at her lake house. Weekends are filled with movies, relaxation, and time with loved ones.
His journey reflects what NDEAM is all about: breaking down barriers, embracing ability, and helping people move forward with dignity and purpose.
MDI’s mission has been to create inclusive employment pathways, and stories like Clayton’s show just how powerful those opportunities can be.
#NDEAM2025 | #DisabilityEmployment | #UnifiedWork | #MDI | #MovingForward
