Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month

At MDI, every employee’s story is part of a bigger picture, one of resilience, inclusion, and progress. This October, for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we’re proud to share the journey of Tina, who has been with MDI for seven years.

Tina’s path to MDI began thanks to the encouragement of Scott Olson, a strong advocate who played an important role in helping her secure her first opportunity here. Scott’s legacy continues to inspire the community through the annual Scott Olson Memorial 5K, where Tina proudly cheers on her coworkers.

Inside the workplace, Tina has found stability and satisfaction. “I like my hours,” she shares, appreciating MDI’s shift to a four-day workweek. She works Monday through Thursday in Cohasset, enjoying a schedule that allows balance and consistency. Over time, Tina has learned multiple roles, from welding on the main production line to tackling challenging assignments. While she admits some tasks, like assembling Amazon clips totes,  can be tough, her persistence and work ethic shine through.

Tina has also embraced opportunities for personal and professional growth through MDI’s enrichment activities and Unified Work Career Skills courses. She’s completed both Career Skills 1 & 2, building confidence in teamwork, communication, and self-advocacy.

Her engagement extends beyond the warehouse floor. Tina was recently invited to join the Transportation Advocacy Committee, where she’ll contribute her voice to shaping how transportation impacts employees and community members alike. It’s another way she’s helping move both people and communities forward.

Though Tina is modest about her accomplishments, her supervisors see her potential. “She’s such a hard worker and a quick learner,” one colleague shared. “She doesn’t hype herself up as much as she should. She’s engaging, asks great questions, and has grown so much in her time at MDI.”

For Tina, it all comes down to simplicity: “I like it here.” And sometimes, that’s the most powerful statement of all.

This NDEAM, we celebrate Tina and employees like her who bring dedication, curiosity, and heart to their work every day. By supporting opportunities for growth, inclusion, and advocacy, MDI is proud to help employees like Tina thrive; at work, at home, and in their communities.

#NDEAM2025 | #UnifiedWork | #MDI | #DisabilityEmployment | #MovingForward