John Kartes, a hazardous materials technician at Fort Lewis, Washington, exemplifies dedication and resilience. Despite using prosthetic arms and legs, John efficiently supports mechanics by operating a forklift to move heavy equipment, managing hazardous material inventories, and coordinating disposal procedures. His supervisors at Skookum Educational Programs in Port Townsend, Washington, consistently commend his exceptional work ethic and positive attitude.
Former site supervisor Buhl Holcolm highlights John’s inspiring presence: “He always has a smile on his face and makes the best of every situation. He is definitely a motivation to other people.”
Losing his limbs at 21 in a car accident, John faced numerous surgeries and treatments. However, he hasn’t let his experiences define him. He tackles challenges head-on, from operating forklifts to managing household tasks.
“I am on my feet almost all day and it is physically challenging,” John states. “I surprise a lot of people with the things I can do, like simply taking care of my yard, weeding and mowing my grass, for example.”
Skookum is part of a network of non-profit agencies that provide employment opportunities to individuals with significant disabilities. These agencies secure federal contracts for goods and services through the Javits-Wagner-O’Day (JWOD) Program.
The JWOD program originated from the Wagner-O’Day Act of 1938, initially enabling agencies serving the blind to sell products to the federal government. In 1971, Senator Jacob Javits spearheaded an amendment to include people with other severe disabilities, allowing agencies to offer services in addition to products.
Currently, over 45,000 individuals who are blind or have other severe disabilities are employed through the JWOD program. This program stands as the largest single source of employment for people with disabilities, providing essential skills, training, equitable wages, benefits, and greater independence.