For 31 years, Robert Donato worked in one job for the same company. He then found himself unemployed. Living with a disability, Robert knew it would not be easy to find another job.
That’s when he discovered ARC Broward’s Center for Financial Stability, which provides a main point of access to programs supporting the career aspirations of individuals with disabilities.
In March of 2014, Robert enrolled in the Center for Financial Stability Material Handler Course, a 12-week program that prepares participants with a basic knowledge of electronics in a light industrial/warehouse setting.
A majority of his 12 weeks was spent at ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery, which provides South Florida organizations with secure IT asset disposal and electronics recycling services.
After disassembling some computers, Robert realized he loved the physical activity. He also had a passion to learn more about the technology he was taking apart. In June that same year, he graduated from the Material Handler Course.
Two weeks after the training was complete, Robert was hired as a full-time employee at ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery. Two years later, he still loves what he does every day.
“Working at ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery does not feel like a job to me. It’s more like an adventure,” he said. “I am learning something new every day. “
In addition to disassembling electronics, Robert tests monitors and uses the Ameri-Shred AMS-2000 Hard Drive Shredder. Since data security is one of numerous services available, companies that are considering liquidating, consolidating or upgrading technology entrust ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery with their IT assets that need to be wiped clean and properly destroyed.
“My job is fun. And all I had to do was apply myself and remain determined to reach my goals, which is my advice to others with disabilities,” Robert said. It also helps that he has a supportive family, and his fellow co-workers enjoy working with such a caring friend.
“Robert has been an unbelievable asset to our team from day one. He is a true ARC Broward success story and is a vital member of the IT Asset Recovery family,” said Tomas Leon, Director of ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery. “Robert also continues to serve as a role model for other students who are enrolled in the Material Handler Class.”
ARC Broward IT Asset Recovery’s 25,000-foot warehouse is located by the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport at 3300 SW 13th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315. For more information, call (954) 577-4160. Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook and “Follow” on LinkedIn.
