James dreams of having a great full-time job one day. He has learned so much throughout his life that he isn’t exactly sure what type of work most interests him, but his biggest hope is to be in a position where he feels appreciated as an employee.

To help him prepare for his long-term goal, James accepted a job as a DI associate near the end of 2021. He is now working towards obtaining his driver’s license and is increasing his confidence in his abilities.

“You learn stuff you never thought you would be able to do,” James says. “You get hired and think, ‘I don’t think I can do this because it looks complicated.’ But we take it in parts, so you learn it, and you know it by heart.”

Although James is working to refine his talents and develop new skills, he came to DI with plenty of experience. James previously stocked shelves and bagged groceries at stores near his home. In addition, he has been involved in 3-D printing, coding, stage crew, business, and marching band.

James loves learning and is grateful for the opportunity to be part of another supportive team. He credits much of his ongoing development to his co-workers, particularly his job coach.

“He knows a whole lot,” James says. “Every time he’s here, he’s helping us, he’s helping the customers, he’s going around saying, ‘What can I do to help you become better?’”