When Eric first joined our Empower3D program, he was feeling down about the job search and his possibility of finding work.

Eric was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as an infant, leaving him with limited motor function in his left arm and leg. In 2024, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Software Systems Engineering. However, because of the COVID pandemic, Eric found himself unable to take part in the typical networking and co-op opportunities, leaving him without the experience and connections he needed to find employment in his field.

He joined our program particularly interested in learning how to market himself to potential employers. Eric valued the small setting of the classroom during pre-employment and skills training, which allowed him to comfortably share his experiences and learn from those around him. He learned both hard and soft skills, including lessons on workers rights and workplace do’s and don’ts.

Since joining Empower3D, Eric has noticed a huge improvement in his mental health.

In the beginning, Eric felt a deep sense of frustration with his prospects of finding any job, let alone one in his chosen field. Now, Eric is enjoying going to networking events, and also recently took part in a data hackathon, another opportunity to make valuable connections in his field.

He’s also excited for his work placement at a non-profit, where he’s working in an information and data collection role. Eric looks forward to continuing to develop his workplace skills in a job that resonates with his passions.