I began working at Deseret Industries (DI) right out of high school to save money for college. I didn’t take my training seriously at that time, so my job coach had her work cut out for her. When I returned after a semester at school, I hadn’t changed a great deal. However, with all the support and encouragement I received while at DI, I began to change. My job coach was really understanding and worked with me so I could be successful. I wanted to be a lead for other associates, so after a lot of hard work, I earned an opportunity to be the lead over the clothing production team. Still, I didn’t realize all that I had attained. I thought I had gotten a job title, a pay increase, and an engraved name tag. But I had received much more than that—I had received confidence, renewed spirituality, and courage to seek after a future career.

To move forward with my career goal, I took a pharmacy technician class. My job coach was there to support me and was willing to work with me to assure I would succeed. When I finished the class, I began an externship, which gave me some practical experience. DI helped to pay for a lot of the things I needed to continue in the program.

A few weeks into my externship, I began working on the docks at DI because it allowed me to spend more time at the pharmacy. I once again worked as a lead. It was amazing and one of the best things I ever did to gain new leadership and customer service skills.

As I look back on my time at DI, I realize that the only true way to receive the blessings of DI is to take advantage of what they have to offer. The DI is an amazing place, filled with an amazing spirit. God really does work through the dedicated people at DI who genuinely care about each associate. I am so thankful for all the staff and everything that they have done for me. It is because of them that I have become who I am and am now a certified pharmacy technician. I now have a life-long career. DI, thank you for everything!