Last year, the Kansas City House of Representatives recognized Genesis Ortiz alongside six others as part of their World Down Syndrome Day celebration. Genesis participates in an industrial manufacturing and fulfillment Registered Apprenticeship program sponsored by Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI).
DSI is a Kansas non-profit that provides support and advocacy for individuals with Down Syndrome to help them live purposeful and satisfying lives. The apprenticeship program employer is Nautical Manufacturing and Fulfillment, an industrial packaging and fulfillment business in Kansas City.
Genesis began her apprenticeship with a starting wage of $12 per hour, significantly higher than the federal minimum of $7.25. Her dedication and skill have led to an increase to $14 per hour, and she’s on track to reach $16 upon program completion.
“I like working It makes me feel happy when I help other people by packing cans into boxes and then push it down the line. If something gets stuck or a box breaks,
I can help sort that out, too.”
Along with twenty-two other industrial manufacturing technician apprentices from DSI, Genesis also attends DSI’s ACE Academy for adult continuing education to hone her work and independent living skills. Genesis, who speaks Spanish, says she loves interacting with other native Spanish speakers.
Through her Registered Apprenticeship, volunteer work, and DSI training, Genesis is developing the soft skills and vocational training that will help her succeed.
Publish Date: 08/27/2024