As you step through the doors of the new Miller Electric Company building, one of the first things you see is Maddie’s smiling face. Just beyond her, “Powering the Possibilities” is displayed prominently on the wall. This vision of the company is exactly how Maddie ended up in her job on January 11, 2021.
Last year, the JAX Chamber and Connectable partnered for the 20 in 20 campaign, designed to inspire 20 JAX Chamber members to pledge to hire an individual with intellectual and developmental differences in 2020. Henry Brown, CEO of Miller Electric Company and JAX Chamber Chair, was one of the first to join the initiative. Henry shared their focus on creating opportunities for people from any background and providing purposeful, meaningful work. “When businesses can be flexible and adaptable in bringing people off the sidelines and create opportunities for them to work, we all win as a community.”
When Michael Oliver, Vice President of HR & Risk Management, first met Maddie he thought, “Let’s make this happen.” Shortly after, Maddie joined the team as the Office Assistant, working five days a week assisting with printing, opening and delivering the mail, and greeting people at reception. Since then, there was no looking back. “It’s rewarding, not just for our employees and company, but for Maddie as well,” Mike shared. For Maddie, her favorite part is the people: she loves the environment and says it’s a fun place to work.
Julia Tyler, the receptionist, says Maddie is the highlight of her workday and a “quintessential part of running the front reception.” She’s quick to jump in and help and is always open to learning new things.
“There was some fear of the unknown, but our leadership says you have to get uncomfortable to have growth,” Dr. Rochelle Bailey Price, Vice President, Shared Services, reflects. She said it’s been a wonderful experience for the entire company, and they will continue to grow together. Throughout the process, Dr. Rochelle and Michael worked alongside Maddie’s job coach, Megan, to walk through the steps for success.
“It’s fun to work at Miller Electric Company and it’s a great environment. The people are really nice,” said Maddie.
Miller Electric is not just powering the possibilities for Maddie, but leading other companies in our community to do the same. “The opportunities for her here are limitless. There is a bright future for Maddie here at Miller,” says Julia.
