APD > Special to the Democrat

Tallahassee Democrat -- October 23, 2009
http://www.tallahassee.com/article/20091023/BUSINESS/910230329/1003/RSS02

Jay Bradshaw works above and beyond

Martin Electronics Inc. is always on the lookout for dependable employees. The company has found one in materials handler Jay Bradshaw.

He has been with the company for more than 12 years and is responsible for packing parts for shipment, then sending them out.

""Jay is an excellent employee. He is always thinking about what needs to be done," said production supervisor Helen Blue. "He is observing and thinking ahead. He is not your average employee. Jay goes above and beyond what is needed. He is always coming up with ideas to save the company money." October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities is highlighting the contributions of Bradshaw and other people with disabilities to the work force. A munitions assembly plant, Martin Electronics has made a commitment to employing individuals with disabilities. About 4 percent of its 250 employees have a disability. The company has a daily shipping goal of 1,100 parts. Bradshaw takes the goal as a personal challenge. "It is kind of fun to see if you can make the production goal," he says. Company President Rick Gardner said hiring people with disabilities yields a great return on investment. "Our company has been relying on the work force of Taylor County for more than 40 years to support our operations in Perry," Gardner said. "Martin Electronics is proud of the work ethic and effort put forth by all our employees, including those with disabilities, and understands they are the most valuable resource we bring to the accomplishment of our mission."

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn and work in their communities. The agency annually serves about 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org.