Cody Smith
Cody, 21, is a bright and determined young man with ADHD and autism.
Teachers
and therapists shared with his mother and grandparents during his
developmental years that he would not be able to hold a job.
For
as long as he can remember, he has always disagreed with that thought
process and was compelled to prove otherwise. He began his career at a
fast food restaurant in the Sanford area washing dishes and performing
janitorial duties.
Although he appreciated the
opportunity, he felt like he was capable of doing more and wanted to
show his capabilities. Working through LCI, Inc., an agency that
supports individuals with disabilities, he landed his dream job in May
2017.
With the ultimate goal of promoting an
inclusive employment workforce, LCI and Pfizer, the pharmaceutical
company, formed a partnership. Through this partnership, the position of
distribution clerk at Pfizer opened in Sanford, NC.
Making sure that all supplies have been restocked and are available, Cody has created a system to keep things in check. Loving his job, he is saving money, so he can one day live independently.
Maintaining and restock the office storeroom is a crucial part of Cody Smith's daily responsibilities at Pfizer. The storeroom houses office supplies used throughout the organization.
Upon delivering paper, Cody is asked to assist with a paper jam. He strikes up a conversation while he corrected the issue. There is a joy that comes not only from Cody, but the employees at Pfizer when they interact with him.
Cody has an immense amount of pride for pushing through when others may not have believe in him. His position as distribution clerk within the Pfizer organization has proven that his self-belief and determination has really paid off.
Making sure that all supplies have been restocked and are available, Cody has created a system to keep things in check. Loving his job, he is saving money, so he can one day live independently with his girlfriend who also has autism.
Despite the enormity of the 500-plus employee sized facility, Cody is a popular presence within the organization. To say he feels at home is putting it mildly.
At lunch, Cody socializes with Pat Towey, Plant Engineering Manager, left, and Julie Conder, an administrator, or what he calls, “his daytime family.” There are lots of laughs, some teasing and pats on the backs that take place in the cafeteria.