In this episode of Outlook On-Air, host Dennis Nelson dives deeper into the features of the BlindShell phone, showcasing its radio and internet features.
Joining Dennis is Outlook Nebraska associate Gary Crane, who opens up about his personal journey with vision loss caused by retinoschisis. Gary shares his story of connecting with Outlook Nebraska, his experiences, and more. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation!
In this episode of Outlook On-Air, host Dennis Nelson takes us inside his role as an Adaptive Technology Trainer. He explores the BlindShell phone, a powerful adaptive device designed for blind and visually impaired individuals.
Dennis highlights key features, including its tactile keypad, voice control, and the Tandem App, which allows loved ones to provide remote support. Listen now.
In the debut episode of Outlook On-Air, host Dennis Nelson, Adaptive Technology Trainer at Outlook Enrichment, introduces the podcast, previews upcoming episodes, and shares a helpful iPhone adaptive tech tip.
CEO Eric Stueckrath joins to share the inspiring history of Outlook and its growth. Plus, Megan Mackie, Community Events Coordinator, highlights the importance of community engagement and gives a sneak peek at our exciting events.
Alex Curtis was born with cataracts, and his vision loss progressed as an adult. He overcame many challenges to get to where he is now, and Outlook Nebraska has been part of this journey for over 10 years.
After the 2008 housing crash forced his family to give up their rental properties, Alex realized he needed some additional skills. He received some independent living and orientation and mobility training and was put in touch with Outlook Nebraska.
Alex filled a temporary Outlook position before moving into full-time employment. He is now a finisher 3 in the production facility. The people and programs at Outlook helped Alex establish a career for himself and become financially independent. Alex no longer receives social security benefits.
Alex’s ability to lead by example and his dedication to his work gave him the Outlook 2021 National Industries for the Blind Peter J. Salmon Award nomination, which recognizes blind and visually impaired workers from across the nation who excel in their positions at NIB-associated agencies.
The technology training Alex received at Outlook allowed him to grow professionally. In 2017, Alex became a business owner by joining the Nebraska Business Enterprise Program. His company, YV Vending, consists of over 20 vending machines across multiple Omaha, Neb. buildings.
Aaron Peterson, whose legal blindness was caused by retinitis pigmentosa, joined Outlook in 2016 after spending time trying to find employment. He worked in Outlook’s production facility as a finisher.
Like so many Outlook associates, Aaron reinforces the concept that hard work and determination pays off. Management noticed Aaron’s desire to develop his skills, and the human resources director made sure he knew about professional development opportunities. Aaron was one of eight participants accepted into the National Industries for the Blind’s Professional Mastery of Office Technology pilot program in New York. The program strengthened Aaron’s computer skills, setting him up for growth at Outlook. This training helped Aaron receive a promotion into Outlook’s sales department within his first year of employment.
As Outlook’s customer experience associate, Aaron uses his problem-solving abilities, his computer skills and product knowledge to create a positive experience for customers. Aaron reviews orders, discusses pricing with customers, and works hard to solve other customer needs.
In addition to his recent accomplishments within Outlook, Aaron acquired yet another title: homeowner. Aaron wanted to purchase a home for many years, and his Outlook career made this possible.
In his spare time, Aaron enjoys playing video games and spending time with his family.
Brian Grams grew up in a small town. He was on the football team. He rode horses and even began his own horse training business after high school. Life was good.
Brian was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at a young age. It did not affect him much until high school, when he had to give up playing football because he could no longer see at night. After three years of driving, he had to give up his keys.
Brian found a job at a golf course and later moved into a production position at a local factory. He never advanced in his previous jobs. He was passed over for promotions and felt like a liability, like others thought they could do the work better.
After completing some independent living training, Brian began his Outlook Nebraska career as a finisher in 2015. He quickly advanced to a machine operator. Brian feels comfortable at Outlook Nebraska and that his skills are valued and appreciated. He is not judged on how much he can see.
Brian is dedicated to the continual development of his talent and is known as a team player by his fellow associates. According to his peers, he has a strong work ethic and works well with multiple departments. He is always willing to help others and goes the extra mile for the organization.
Brian previously served as the Outlook Nebraska Quality Workplace Environment Committee chairperson. He was Outlook Nebraska’s National Industries for the Blind Peter J. Salmon Award nominee in 2018.
Brian has also played competitive goalball and started a small trucking operation.
