Settled just off Highway 97 on Fenwick Road lies Spider Agile Technology, a local business that specializes in powering modular interior construction manufactured by their partner DIRTT Environmental Solutions.
Although technologically advanced, Spider doesn’t discriminate when it comes to providing employment opportunities. After searching to fulfill numerous temporary labour positions, Production Manager Dawn Corrigan sought out the help of Pathways Abilities Society.
Photo Credit: NowMedia
Fast forward three years and the bond forged between the two businesses is stronger than ever thanks to the impressive work done by one Pathways employee in particular, Bret.
Starting out with tasks as simple as making boxes and packing products alongside another employees, Bret quickly demonstrated he was more capable than he initially led on, and has since earned a position in assembly.
“We wanted to be able to employ someone that was going to be able to take some of those menial tasks off my staff so that they could do bigger things, but actually having Bret come in and be able to do more and more was amazing,” said Corrigan.
Photo Credit: NowMediaBret
“It has really made it so that my staff buy into having Bret here, he is totally part of the team and now capable of doing pretty much anything within our facility.”
Bret follows the typical work schedule, though his shifts are shorter. He is in for five hours a day, five days a week, and loves every second of it.
“It is the greatest. Spider lets me earn money, and be more independent,” said Bret.
Photo Credit: NowMedia
“I like working in all of the different spots and the free lunch,” he added.
Not only has Bret worked his way up the employment ladder, but he has secured himself as the one to go to if you need a pick-me-up while on the job.
“Bret is the guy who puts a smile everybody’s face every day. He is quirky and has a great sense of humour, but he can get to work when he needs to,” said Corrigan.
Photo Credit: NowMedia
According to Corrigan, utilizing the Pathways program is a “great idea” for businesses and offers a win-win for both parties.
“Bret needs to be employed and having this job is not only good for his moral but our moral. It has worked really really well for us,” he says.
“Pathways are very supportive of their participants, and if you’ve been thinking about trying it out, do it! It has been great.”
