All you need is a few minutes with Ricardo to realize that working at Deseret Industries is something he values and is proud of.  

“I am trying to get the most out of this opportunity,” Ricardo says. “My goal is to eventually make enough money to start some type of business, like a barber shop.” 

Ricardo first learned about the DI job training program from friends who encouraged him to pursue employment at Deseret Industries. 

“My friends knew I was a hard worker,” Ricardo says. “They also knew that DI was a great place for me to get some good work experience.”

Now, Ricardo is leveraging his time at DI to reach his personal and professional goals. You can sense the humility and gratitude he has for the chance to create a better life for himself and his family.

“Like every job, you must have discipline,” Ricardo says. “As I work hard and push myself, I am feeling good about how I have grown here.”

Ricardo is one of the thousands of associates who are part of the job training program at Deseret Industries. The goal of the program is to provide DI associates with essential employment skills and behaviors that will prepare them to obtain better work.

As part of the DI job training program, Ricardo works under the direction of an operational supervisor, who functions as a job coach. His supervisor provides personalized coaching to help Ricardo build his workplace behaviors and skills.

“I like how my coach teaches me to do my job and become a better employee,” Ricardo says. “I appreciate how he guides me to become better and shows me what to do to improve.”

This type of improvement is happening every day at all Deseret Industries locations. Associates come to work not just to earn a living but also to grow and progress personally and professionally. The training that associates receive on the job makes DI different than other thrift stores. It is a positive place to work and helps associates find joy in their employment.

“I really enjoy working at DI,” Ricardo says. “I feel good coming to work and doing my job.”

Wondering how your purchases at Deseret Industries make a difference? Check out our Thrifting at Deseret Industries page to learn how shopping at DI helps associates like Ricardo reach their goals.