Meet Maria.
Maria is a Supported Employee of OC Connections Enterprises. Over the years, she’s trialled several different areas of OCCE – including packing and assembly, car washing, and administration – until settling comfortably into our document management team.
Maria has such an eagerness to learn that when ACCIONA reached out to Nancy at OCCE with a new work experience opportunity for people with disability, Maria jumped on it. She sent in her expression of interest and, after shortlisting and touring the ACCIONA offices, she started her role with Alice in reception.
“First week was daunting, it was scary. Once I got to know everyone it was just like, okay, I feel really comfortable.”
ACCIONA’s work experience program was conducted alongside OCCE, ensuring that both Maria and the organisation had the support they needed if they faced any obstacles in the workplace. Katrina, Maria’s key worker, supported her initial training and integration into the offices, and was always one call away if she required any assistance during her placement.
But it was seamless, and Maria fit right in.
During her weeks at ACCIONA, Maria learned many new things from Alice, the Administration Officer who runs the reception desk. They quickly built a strong rapport and worked well alongside each other, providing support to the construction and engineering teams in their day-to-day routines.
Carla, ACCIONA’s Industry Capability and Inclusion Advisor, spoke on the success of the work experience program and Maria’s development throughout her time with the organisation.
“Part of the success has been able to find a partner in OCCE. . . they know all of their workforce really well, not just from a skills perspective but from a personality perspective, and understand what is going to make that person succeed in the workplace.”
Carla says that Maria has “absolutely smashed it” in her role and has been receiving positive feedback from others on Maria’s positive energy and improved confidence.
The success of this program has prompted conversations within the organisation on how to create more potentially long-term opportunities for people with disabilities, aiming to drive real change in the sector.
Programs like these are crucial in opening doors for people with disabilities who struggle to find employment regardless of their experience and capabilities. OCC Enterprises is always seeking opportunities for growth and professional development for our Supported Employees, whether it be a short-term work experience program or a long-term Open Employment position.
If your organisation is ready to diversify your workforce, improve company culture and morale, and strengthen consumer perception, all while making a positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities, then contact Nancy at OC Connections Enterprises.
