A seed is full of potential. When planted and cared for in the right conditions, it grows and flourishes into the plant it was destined to become. 

The same can be said of DI associate Seth, who has grown from a seed of potential to a flourishing employee. Seth is gaining new skills and confidence while working at Deseret Industries, and he is becoming a leader among his coworkers.  

Growing Skills 

The mission of Deseret Industries is to help those enrolled in the DI job training program improve their lives through work, training, and education. Associates practice important workplace behaviors such as professionalism, teamwork, and dependability, but progress extends beyond just these skills. 

“I have grown not just mentally but also socially,” Seth says. “I try to spread happiness while I am here. Sometimes people need a listening ear.” 

As Seth has made an effort to connect with others while on the job, he has also learned how to build professional relationships of trust. 

“My favorite part of my job is the people,” Seth says. “I meet and work with people from all around the world. I love learning from their story and their background.”

Thanks to his growth mindset and time in the program, Seth has also become a trusted employee. He is now the lead cashier, which is providing experience that will prepare him for future employment opportunities.  

“I am improving my resume by learning new skills that will help me get a higher-paying job,” Seth says. 

As Seth grows his abilities, he also meets with volunteers at Employment Services. This free service helps active job seekers look for better employment and become better job candidates. Seth is utilizing this resource to build his resume and look for better work. 

Growing Confidence 

When asked how his experience in the DI job training program has impacted him, Seth makes it clear that he has learned how to be a better employee. 

“DI has boosted my skills and my confidence,” Seth says. “I am more confident because this job has improved my communication.” 

As a result, Seth is more comfortable interacting with strangers—a change he ties directly to his experience working at DI.  

“I didn’t like talking to people I had never met before,” Seth says. “Now I walk right up to strangers, help them, and ask them how their day has been.”

Growing into Leadership 

By learning to be mindful and confident, Seth has also discovered how to support others in their growth. 

“I have learned how to approach things differently,” Seth says. “I don’t tell people what to do, I suggest. I show them how to do the work for themselves.” 

To Seth, being a leader means helping others feel like they belong. His role as lead cashier has provided him with several opportunities to be a leader. He credits his job coaches for helping him gain leadership skills. 

“My previous job coach taught me that leadership is not a title; it’s a skill,” Seth says. “Becoming a lead has improved my leadership skills.” 

The Seed of Potential 

With the help of the DI job training program, Seth has grown from a seed of potential to a sturdy plant of valuable skill sets. His story shows that those who embrace opportunities provided to them can reach their potential. 

Is the DI job training program right for you or someone you know? Learn more about the program on our Work at Deseret Industries page.