In Their Own Words: NC’s Disability Workforce
Every October, we at NCCDD celebrate and recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NCCDD collected stories across the state from employees with disabilities. The stories share why work is important to people with I/DD — from learning new skills to making new friends to leading with purpose.
This month’s message brings the voices of individuals in the workforce and their stories about what they do at work and why they love their job. Read their stories here.
To learn about North Carolina’s employment resources, visit NC Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities.
Jake Plue - East Frank Superette and Kitchen (Monroe)
I have been working at East Frank Kitchen and Superette in downtown Monroe since 2021. I walk to work every day, but sometimes I get a ride home; my family really wants me to walk as much as I can. I am the head dishwasher and the most reliable employee they've got at East Frank. I don't ever call in sick, and I show up early all the time. Sometimes I get in trouble for coming too early! I do all my dishes on time. There are three sinks, and sometimes they are all full when I get there. I'm reliable. They can count on me. They can't keep dishwashers sometimes, but they always have me.
Being a dishwasher is the hardest job at a restaurant. People think being a cook is the hardest job. It's not. Dishwashers have the hardest job because there are so many dishes all the time. Monday was terrible. Dishes in all the sinks, and I had to get it all done and also cut up some fries when I was done.
My job is fun because people like me a lot and they listen to my stories. All the people at EF are easy to get along with. They don't get mad at me (much), and we cut up a lot, and they tell me when they have had enough of me, and then I get back to work. Sometimes I am too honest, and that gets me in trouble. My boss Carley treats me like her family, and so does Robbie. She gets on to me like I am her son, and we need more people like Carley and Robbie hiring people like me.
All the people that work there are very unique, and I fit in. Everyone belongs here. We make everybody feel welcome, and that means staff and customers.
What is the best part of my job? Being all finished with a pile of dishes. I love my job, and we need more Carley and Robbie’s in the world because there aren't that many people who accept us.
Sarah Gatewood - Hitachi Energy (Raleigh)
I am an intern at Hitachi Energy in Raleigh. My job is organizing snacks, labeling shirts with sizes, and learning new skills. I also get to make social media videos which is a lot of fun. And I love to see my friends in the office. The best part of my job is my friends in the office, my boss, and my job coach.
I currently work in the EIPD program at Durham County as a Peer Support Specialist. What makes my job fun is coming to work each day, preparing to help clients, and guiding them toward a successful job search. The best part of my job is interacting with my coworkers and clients, as well as documenting my interactions with clients.
Kaitlin Moncol - Jerry’s Artarama (Raleigh)
My name is Kaitlin Moncol and I am a Creative at Jerry's Artarama. I have been working here since October 2012. Every day at Jerry’s Artarama brings something a little different. Between stocking shelves, helping customers, working the register, and opening and closing the store, there’s always something to do.
One of my favorite things is organizing the paints and making all the colors look pretty. I also love working with my coworkers, hearing about the interesting projects customers are working on, and getting to see their finished creations. People come in with some really unique ideas!
But the best part of my job is being able to make someone’s day a little better. A lot of people come in feeling stressed, and it’s nice to see them leave feeling more relaxed and happy.
Knowing I can make even a small difference in someone’s day is what makes the job so rewarding.
Adam Strom - Cambridge Village (Apex)
For nearly seven years, Adam Strom has been a familiar face to residents and staff at Cambridge Village of Apex, where he works 20 hours a week as a porter.
Adam has a variety of responsibilities that help keep Cambridge Village running smoothly. Each day, he collects and takes out recycling, helps wrap silverware in the dining room, and keeps the coffee bar clean and stocked. He has also assisted with laundry in the fitness center, making sure residents have fresh, clean towels.
His work extends beyond these daily responsibilities. Adam helps set up Thursday activities for residents, including balloon volleyball, cornhole, card games, and ladder toss. He has also assisted with special events, including a hot dog and beer fest, soup extravaganzas, and men's breakfasts. These activities give Adam additional opportunities to interact with residents and contribute to the community.
Over the years, Adam has developed friendships and become a valued member of the Cambridge Village community. His contributions were recognized in October 2026 when he received the Employee of the Month Award, celebrating his outstanding performance and dedication.
Adam said, "I like seeing my friends at Cambridge Village. I like helping people and doing my jobs." And according to Adam, his favorite part of coming to work is "my friends!"
For Adam, who has Fragile X syndrome and autism, employment provides much more than a paycheck. It gives him a place where he belongs, a familiar routine, and opportunities to connect with people who know and value him.
His pride in his work is evident each morning as he puts on his Cambridge Village polo shirt and makes sure his name tag is in place. He's ready to go to work and be part of the team.
For his parents, Adam's employment represents something equally important. His job provides structure and purpose to his days, meaningful relationships outside his family, and earnings that contribute to his ABLE account and long-term financial security.
With the support of his longtime job coach and an employer that recognizes his abilities, Adam has built a successful employment history and become an important part of daily life at Cambridge Village.
Grant Pearson - Peer Support Specialist (Durham County)
I currently work in the EIPD program at Durham County as a Peer Support Specialist.
What makes my job fun is coming to work each day, preparing to help clients, and guiding them toward a successful job search.
The best part of my job is interacting with my coworkers and clients, as well as documenting my interactions with clients.
Video Story: Kristine Hughes
Kristine Hughes shares her employment story during the NCCDD's Self-Advocate Discussion Series in September, when advocates prepared to celebrate the 81st anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
Video Story: Kimberly Hernandez
Kimberly Hernandez shares her employment story during the NCCDD's Self-Advocate Discussion Series in September, when advocates prepared to celebrate the 81st anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).