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Tag: Non-profit

DRTC picks up 5th straight CIMS re-certification

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

We’re excited to say we’ve earned our fifth straight CIMS (Cleaning Industry Management Standard) re-certification!

The CIMS certification is awarded to custodial providers who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in their management and custodial services. DRTC was evaluated in six areas including quality systems, service delivery, human resources, regulatory compliance, management commitment, and green building. DRTC has been CIMS certified since 2014.

 “Achieving our fifth consecutive CIMS re-certification reflects our commitment to quality and reliability in support of the mission at the locations we serve,” said DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “We are proud to continue upholding the high standards that CIMS represents.”

DRTC holds federal custodial contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, the U.S. Marshals Oklahoma City office, and the federal complex in downtown Oklahoma City. Combined, DRTC’s custodial team cleans more than 7 million square feet at these locations.

As of 2023, DRTC is one of more than 340 companies globally that is CIMS certified. In addition to re-certification, DRTC received a distinction of honors for exceeding CIMS six core areas of business.

Agencywide, DRTC serves, trains or employs approximately 900 people living with disabilities or limiting conditions. Last year, people employed across all DRTC’s programs earned $6.2 million in wages. More than 75% of DRTC’s programs and employment opportunities are based in the community.

Ability At Work Awards Employer of the Year: JASCO

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congratulations to our 2024 AAWA Employer of the Year: JASCO

Group of people on a stage, man holding an award speaking into microphone.
Mark Schaffner of JASCO accepting award alongside LaQuita Colbert, Dana Ganschow, Kathy Veros, Gary Roettge, and DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland.

Beginning in 2008 with building displays for Target, this 16-year relationship currently supports more than 100 people in the DRTC Production Center and 12 individuals who have worked onsite at their location with more than $200,000 in contracts. Today, Jasco, an industry leader in electronics, looks to DRTC as a partner for high-quality work in kitting, assembly, and packaging, placing R-F-I-D’s on products for placement in Walmart. As a company, Jasco aspires to improve people’s lives through partnerships that inspire change. We appreciate Jasco seeing our ability to be a valuable business partner, which is why Jasco is our Ability at Work—Employer of the Year. 

Ability At Work Awards Spotlight Honorees

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congratulations to all AAWA 2024 Spotlight Honorees!

Vocational Services 

Woman presenting a young man an award.

Nicholas Schildt 

Excited about moving into Competitive Integrated Employment, Nicholas Schildt is determined and dedicated to his work. Working at the enclave Taylor Valve, Nick is recognized as a very skilled plug builder and PSI tester. Nick had an employment goal of moving into his own apartment where he is independent and lights up when talking about cooking some of his favorite recipes that come from his gaming system. He especially likes the recipe “Those Poor Unfortunate Rolls.” His dedication to working in the community and being an example for others moving into competitive integrated employment is why Nicholas Schildt is our Vocational Services Spotlight Honoree. 

Employment Services 

Woman with her arm up around a young man presenting him an award.

Isaiah Sweeney  

Isaiah Sweeney has an infectious smile and laugh that immediately drew his coworkers and supervisors in. He has been a productive and dependable employee at Ross for almost one year. He is thorough when placing security tags and is willing to work in any department to stock merchandise on the floor. His eagerness to learn, willingness to work hard, and ability to adapt to various environments have made him a great employee, which is why Isaiah Sweeney is our Employment Services Spotlight Honoree. 

Staff 

Man standing up holding an award up over his head.

Charles Young 

A true advocate for a disability-inclusive workforce and the people he serves, Charles Young is known for his tenacity and follow-through to get the job done! He takes pride in his work and is a role model within the agency. He takes on each challenge with a positive “Can Do” attitude. At DRTC since 2012, Charles transitioned from Warehouse/Delivery Driver to Warehouse Manager and is currently Production Coordinator.  He recently stated, “You don’t work a day in your life if you love what you do.”  He exemplifies that daily and is a great asset to DRTC. Charles Young is one of our Direct Service Professional Honorees. 

Woman sitting smiling holding an award.

Sue Gill 

It is no wonder that Sue Gill is a trusted advocate for the clients at DRTC. Sue came to DRTC in 2021 after a dedicated career in education and counseling. Sue helped develop and lead the DRTC Academy, while building partnerships with local nonprofits such as I-D-D Safe and Bethany Children’s Center to help give specific skills to the individuals she serves. Her compassion and empathy is seen in every interaction! This is why Sue Gill is one of our Direct Service Professional Spotlight Honorees. 

Federal Contracts 

Woman standing holding an award with two men to her sides smiling with her.

Rachel Evans (TMC) 

Rachel Evans always has a positive attitude. An AbilityOne employee at DRTC’s Tinker Maintenance Contract since 2010, Rachel has worked in many different buildings during her tenure and has adapted to each environment. She develops trust and great relationships with her coworkers, leads, supervisor, and Tinker personnel. While developing these relationships she maintains focus on her tasks, taking pride in her work daily. Rachel Evans is one of our AbilityOne Spotlight Honorees. 

Man standing next to woman who is smiling holding an award.

Milvian Hernandez-Tecun (FAA) 

A dedicated employee at the FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center since 2016, Milvian Hernandez-Tecun is very flexible and accepting of changes which makes her a versatile employee. Milvian’s quality inspections scores consistently exceed 90% which shows exceptional detail and gives confidence to her Supervisors to have her regularly travel to other buildings at FAA to help her colleagues. Milvian is very thorough in what she does and truly enjoys coming to work every day. She is always happy to see her peers as well as her lead and supervisor. Milvian Hernandez-Tecun is one of our AbilityOne Spotlight Honorees. 

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Grant to Foster Entrepreneurship Among Oklahomans with Disabilities

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

People with disabilities seeking self-employment will have more opportunities to reach their goals, thanks in part to pandemic relief aid.

The Oklahoma County Board of Commissioners recently approved $100,000 in pandemic relief aid via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for DRTC to create an incubator/accelerator program designed to support people with disabilities to become self-employed.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to pave their own path and receive the resources needed to be successful in business,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with a disability were more likely to be self-employed (9.5%) than those with no disability (6.1%).

DRTC’s Hub Business Incubator Program, with a tentative launch date in late 2023, will provide support and training for people with a disability interested in becoming entrepreneurs. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop their ideas through a business planning process. Another component involves mentorship comprised of established business leaders to provide guidance, support and advice for the entrepreneurs. Applicants interested in participating in the program should contact pr@drtc.org or call 405-946-4489 x1431.

Employability Honorees from DRTC’s 70th Anniversary Gala

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

As DRTC proudly celebrates its 70th Anniversary, we’re taking a moment to honor and recognize those individuals whose commitment embodies the organization’s core mission of leading the community toward a more disability-inclusive workforce.

Employment Services Client Spotlight Honoree – John Hamilton

Over and over John Hamilton has proven to be a flexible and adaptive employee for the OU Children’s Hospital. He is known for his consistently high-quality work over the past two years. An active listener and skilled communicator, John contributes positively to the overall performance of his team and company. Quiet and focused, it’s easy to see why he’s a valued staff and mentor for his co-workers.

Employment Services Direct Service Professional Spotlight Honoree – Vivian Naegeli

As an Employment Training Specialist and Supervisor for 18 years, Vivian Naegeli has supported more than 400 individuals with disabilities in their employment journey. Throughout her employment, Vivian has consistently assisted the most individuals in obtaining employment across the community. Proficient in American Sign Language and individualized support for people who are Deaf, Vivian is an unstoppable force in creating a more disability-inclusive workforce and community for Oklahoma.

Employment Services Employer Champion – Sodexo

A global leader in quality-of-life services essential for individual and organizational performance.  Sodexo supports equal opportunity for all employees. Since 2016, DRTC has successfully partnered with Sodexo as an employer for more than 35 individuals with disabilities across 13 locations. Year after year, Sodexo’s commitment to hiring a disability-inclusive workforce through the DRTC Employment Services Program shines through.

DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Equitability Honorees

Capability Honorees

Dependability Honorees

Capability Honorees from DRTC’s 70th Anniversary Gala

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

As DRTC proudly celebrates its 70th Anniversary, we’re taking a moment to honor and recognize those individuals whose commitment embodies the organization’s core mission of leading the community toward a more disability-inclusive workforce.

State Use Champion – Oklahoma Department of Transportation

A valued customer within the State Use Program for many years, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation has placed their trust in DRTC for many special projects as well as regular orders. From apparel, to plaques, to kitting, this long-standing relationship has provided more than one million dollars in job opportunities for the folks at DRTC Awards, Framing, & Promos. Loyalty to the mission of the State Use Program in providing employment for people with disabilities in Oklahoma is why the Oklahoma Department of Transportation is our State Use Champion.

Business Partnership Champion – JASCO

Beginning with building displays for Target, this 15-year relationship currently supports 100 people in the DRTC Production Center with more than a hundred thousand dollars in contracts. Today, Jasco, an industry leader in electronics, looks to DRTC as a partner for high-quality work in kitting and packaging placing RFID’s on products for placement in Walmart. As a company, Jasco aspires to improve people’s lives through partnerships that inspire change. We appreciate Jasco seeing our ability to be a valuable business partner.

Media Partner Champion –  KFOR

A true media partner with DRTC for several years, KFOR paved the way in highlighting the agency’s mission and successes. Owned by Nexstar Media Group, KFOR-TV has played a key role in raising awareness and supporting people with disabilities as they reimagine their future through employment.

DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Equitability Honorees

Dependability Honorees

Employability Honorees

Dependability Honorees from DRTC’s 70th Anniversary Gala

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

As DRTC proudly celebrates its 70th Anniversary, we’re taking a moment to honor and recognize those individuals whose commitment embodies the organization’s core mission of leading the community toward a more disability-inclusive workforce.

Federal Contract AbilityOne Employee – Myra Denson-Hartsock

With an impeccable work ethic and heartwarming smile, Myra Denson-Hartsock clearly sets the standard for excellence and customer service. For almost 20 years, Myra has been a devoted team player and mentor at the downtown GSA contract. Myra believes in ‘paying it forward’ not only for her co-workers, but also for her federal customers, who feel like part of her family. Myra’s dedication to her work is unmatched and that is why Myra Denson-Hartsock is our AbilityOne, Spotlight Honoree.

Federal Contract Employee – Jason Kelleher

Capable of assembling data from 2,700 building inspections per month, Jason Kelleher spearheaded the current high-tech Quality Assurance Program for all custodial federal contracts. Beginning his career with DRTC as a Floor Tech in 2007, Jason has continued to advance his expertise to become a powerful force, enhancing the integrity and reliability of quality outcomes for the contracts. Embracing new concepts with a positive outlook drives his support of the mission.

DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Employability Honorees

Capability Honorees

Equitability Honorees

DRTC Marks 70 Years in OKC

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

ATC Drivetrain Recognized as Inaugural Employer of the Year

DRTC, also known as Dale Rogers Training Center, celebrated its clients, employees, partners and donors, as well as 70 years of DRTC’s impact and achievements at its 70th Anniversary Gala.

DRTC, founded in 1953 by a group of parents as an educational center for children with disabilities, has since transformed into a vocational and employment center. Every year, the private 501(c)3 nonprofit agency trains, serves, or employs approximately 1,000 people with disabilities. Last program year, people employed across DRTC’s vast programs earned more than $6 million in wages.

The event, held at the Embassy Suites Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center, was emceed by 2021 Miss Oklahoma Ashleigh Robinson, who is a fierce advocate for Danielle, her younger sister with Down syndrome.

DRTC recognized the efforts of several people as well as business partners during the event across several categories: Equitability (Breaking Barriers), Capability (Business Partnerships), Employability (Disability-Inclusion in the Workplace), Dependability (Essential Heroes), culminating in the inaugural DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year Award, which was awarded to ATC Drivetrain, a world leader in remanufacturing of transmissions.

“Employers like ATC Drivetrain have embraced an inclusive workforce and we are thankful for their continued support of DRTC and hiring people with disabilities,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

DRTC is planning additional special events throughout 2023 to continue the celebration with clients, their caregivers, as well as employees at its federal contracts locations.

Complete list of honorees:

  • Kermit Walker – Vocational Services Spotlight Honoree
  • Angela Waldrop – Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
  • Oklahoma City Zoo – Community Integrated Employment Employer Champion
  • Oklahoma Department of Transportation – State Use Champion
  • JASCO – Business Partnership Champion
  • KFOR – Media Partnership Champion
  • John Hamilton – Employment Services Spotlight Honoree
  • Vivian Naegeli – Employment Services, Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
  • Sodexo – Employment Services Employer Champion
  • Myra Denson-Hartsock – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
  • Jason Kelleher – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
  • ATC Drivetrain – DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice tours AbilityOne® Program at Tinker Air Force Base

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05) spent part of her August recess learning how people with disabilities serve as a critical component for the federal government and the United States military.

Rep. Bice recently toured Vanwey Dining Facility, operated by Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), at Tinker Air Force Base. DRTC has held the food service contract through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program, for 30-years, preparing meals for military and civilian personnel around-the-clock. In addition, DRTC holds custodial contracts at TAFB, cleaning 188 buildings on base in support of the mission at Tinker.

NewView Oklahoma, a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and AbilityOne® associated agency, participated in Rep. Bice’s visit as well. NewView Oklahoma provides employment for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. The agency employs 120 full-time employees through AbilityOne® contracts, and 186 employees organization-wide. Those employees serve in various capacities through service contracts at military installations across the country, including Tinker Air Force Base. NewView also offers employment through their Oklahoma City manufacturing plant where they manufacture a diverse range of products including wooden airplane chalks, DLA hoses, hydraulic hoses, high pressure hoses, sanitation products, survival kits, first aid kits, and more.

AbilityOne® Program employees from both DRTC and NewView Oklahoma spoke with Congresswoman Bice about the importance of the employment program in their lives. Rep. Bice also learned more about the AbilityOne® Program from DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., and NewView Oklahoma President & CEO Lauren Branch and how people with disabilities have gained meaningful employment through contracts via SourceAmerica® and NIB.

DRTC employs approximately 200 people at Tinker Air Force Base, among its three contracts on base.

“Through employment, our staff have been able to support their families, advance their careers, and develop their skills,” said Deborah Copeland. Executive Director and CEO of DRTC. “The AbilityOne® Program continues to prove its worth, generating $2.66 to the federal government for every one-dollar spent on the program.” (Mathematica Socioeconomic Impact Evaluation Report)

The unemployment rate for Americans living with vision-related disabilities is 67%; that equates to more than 48,000 Oklahomans eligible but not participating in the workforce. “The AbilityOne® program is a vital federal program that protects and encourages the employment of individuals living with disabilities. Without it, many of our neighbors would remain unemployed,” said Lauren Branch, President and CEO of NewView Oklahoma. 

DRTC recognized Col. Abigail Ruscetta, Commander, 72nd Air Base Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, Congresswoman Bice, and Senator Markwayne Mullin (whose staff attended the event) with a commemorative acrylic manufactured at the agency’s headquarters located at 2501 N. Utah Ave. in Oklahoma City.

Man smiling in front of kitchen smiling wearing DRTC shirt.
Rep. Bice smiling listening to DRTC employees speak in kitchen area.
Man smiling in dining hall wearing DRTC collared shirt.
DRTC CEO Deborah Copeland handing award to Rep. Stephanie Bice.
Rep. Bice smiling listening to DRTC employees speak.

DRTC Installs 2021-2022 Board of Directors and Recognizes Former Executive Director

Posted on by Dale Rogers Training Center

Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), Oklahoma’s highly disability inclusive employer, installed its Program Year 2022 Board of Directors in a recent meeting. Ten members swore in to make key decisions for the agency as it continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic by providing an essential workforce for the Oklahoma City metro.

The following people will join DRTC’s Board of Directors for 2021-2022:

  • Frank Stone, President
  • Helen Stakem, 1st Vice President
  • Bradley Wallace, 2nd Vice President
  • Andrea Nguyen, Secretary
  • Cheryl Moore, Treasurer
  • Kevin Clifton
  • Eric Shannon
  • Kristi Wilson
  • Brian Smith
  • Angela Ables

In addition to the Board installation, the agency recognized former Board member Allen Brown’s 20 years of service to the Board, and presented a commemorative display in honor of former DRTC Executive Director Connie Thrash McGoodwin’s nearly 40 years with the agency. “The agency will be recognizing Connie’s lasting legacy at DRTC,” comments Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., Executive Director. Copeland was named DRTC’s Executive Director in January 2020, leading the agency since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DRTC Executive Director Deborah Copeland, left, speaking to a group of people while standing in front of a commemorative display for her predecessor, Connie Thrash McGoodwin.
Former DRTC Executive Director Connie Thrash McGoodwin standing next to her commemorative display at DRTC.

Throughout the pandemic, DRTC has provided employees in critical infrastructure such as custodial and food service at its federal contract locations (Tinker Air Force Base, FAA, and federal buildings in downtown OKC), as well as in the community via its Employment Services Program, which receives funding through the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services.

DRTC’s main campus programs and business divisions continue providing meaningful work experience for people with disabilities through a variety of subcontracting jobs, as well as manufacturing of awards, trophies, picture frames, screen printed apparel and more.

Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency, is Oklahoma’s leading community vocational training and employment center for people with disabilities in Oklahoma. With multiple locations in Oklahoma, DRTC trains or employs approximately 1,000 people with disabilities per year. The private agency promotes diversity and inclusion of persons with disabilities within our Oklahoma workforce and communities. Visit us online: DRTC.org.

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2501 N. Utah Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73107

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Phone: 405-946-4489
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