Inside National Industries for the Blind with CEO Soraya Correa - Episode 34

Описание: Jennifer welcomes Soraya Correa, President and CEO of National Industries for the Blind, to explore meaningful employment for blind and low vision professionals. Correa explains NIB’s nationwide network, the AbilityOne program, policy priorities, and practical strategies that help employers build inclusive workplaces and advance careers beyond entry level roles.​

Learn more about NIB here.

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Key Takeaways

1. Blind unemployment is roughly double that of people without disabilities, despite significant untapped talent and daily problem-solving skills.​

2. NIB coordinates more than 100 nonprofits producing products like pens, textiles, and aircraft parts, plus services including cybersecurity, warehousing, and contract management.​

3. The AbilityOne program uses federal procurement to drive jobs, with NIB supporting about 5,000 positions in a recent fiscal year, including many veterans.​

4. Meaningful careers are defined by individual choice, from kitting and manufacturing to professional services and certified contract management roles.​

5. Average accommodation costs are modest, around a few hundred dollars per employee, with accessible technology and training unlocking productivity.​

Timestamped Overview

01:40 Introduction to Sightless Voices; Jennifer Parish presents guest Soraya Correa.​

02:44 Correa’s 40-year federal career and path to NIB leadership.​

11:19 NIB mission, network of nonprofits, and overview of products and services.​

25:06 Job numbers, veteran employment, and local impact through agencies like Lighthouse of Houston.​

36:46 Building inclusive workplaces, typical accommodation costs, technology, transportation, and NIB’s OnSite training.​