Project Manager Xylem Lowell, Massachusetts, United States
Discussing disabilities opens a path for inclusion, accessibility, and innovation. Disabilities may be invisible or visible, but being aware and showing compassion is the first step. Acknowledgement helps to foster equity in the engineering field and provide opportunities. It can pave the way to accessibility in workplaces, including tools or technologies, which leads to others pursuing the same path. Engineers with disabilities can also bring unique perspectives to the workplace and projects. Navigating engineering studies and a career with a disability presented significant challenges for the speaker. In the face of fear and misconceptions, they demonstrated resilience by advocating for themselves, seeking support, and innovating solutions to enhance daily tasks. From requesting assistance to devising accessible test stands and leveraging tools as aids, they discovered boundless possibilities for overcoming obstacles.
Learning Objectives:
Identify how to encourage communication with co-workers about embracing disability.
Manage misconceptions about having a disability in the workplace.
