Embracing the unknown can often be daunting when thinking about one’s future, dealing with the unexpected, or simply leaving behind our comfort zones. For this interview series, we sat down with each of our Outlook Enrichment associates to spotlight their expertise within their roles and share their personal stories regarding their journey beyond vision. Meet Dennis Nelson, Outlook Enrichment’s Adaptive Technology Trainer.
Dennis’s Early Life and Influences
Dennis’s journey beyond vision began at birth when he was diagnosed with congenital blindness. Born with detached retinas in both eyes, he has experienced blindness his entire life. Shortly after birth, he was placed for adoption in Wisconsin, where, at age three, he found a loving home with parents who also experienced vision loss (glaucoma and hereditary partial vision). This upbringing created an environment of understanding and mutual support that significantly influenced his outlook on life.
From kindergarten through high school, Dennis attended the Wisconsin School for the Visually Handicapped. While there, he received skills training that improved his nonvisual techniques, particularly orientation and mobility. This training enabled him to navigate his school and community confidently, mastering cane travel to cross streets and follow traffic signals safely. As Dennis grew up, listening to the radio became influential, eventually leading him to pursue a career in the industry, which he feels is his true calling in life.
Forging New Career Paths
Dennis spent much of his early adulthood working in various radio positions, where he discovered a strong passion for on-air broadcasting and audio editing. He eventually became the Production Director at WMTM Radio (Cruisin’ 94) in Moultrie, GA, a role he held for 12 years, allowing him to pursue his love for radio further.
Alongside his radio career, Dennis took on various roles throughout his life. He returned to Wisconsin to participate in Wisconsin’s Business Enterprise Program. Here, he co-owned the state office coffee shop in Milwaukee. He later moved to Minneapolis, where he worked at a cable company, starting in sales before transitioning into other roles. Eventually, Dennis relocated to Petersburg, FL, where he became a technical support specialist at Freedom Scientific, a company providing accessible software for individuals who are blind or have low vision. It was here that he crossed paths with Mitchell (Mitch) Green.
Transforming Lives Through Adaptive Technology
Mitch, his colleague from Freedom Scientific, learned about Outlook Nebraska and moved to Omaha after accepting a job in the IT department here. He later encouraged Dennis to apply for an IT position that opened under him. In February 2017, Dennis joined the Outlook Nebraska team before retiring in 2019 due to health issues. However, he rejoined us in 2023, and we are delighted to have him back on the Outlook Enrichment team as a Part-time Adaptive Tech Trainer.
Today, Dennis enjoys supporting individuals on their journey beyond vision through adaptive technology training tailored to each client’s needs and goals. He assists individuals at our facility and works with clients virtually across the U.S. Witnessing the success and graduation of clients from Enrichment’s program brings him immense pride. Tracking their progress is uplifting and a constant reminder of his purpose here. Dennis remains passionate about audio editing outside of work and enjoys playing with simulators such as airline, railroad, and race car driving in his free time.
While vision loss often brings feelings of isolation and uncertainty, Dennis’s confidence and commitment to exploring new opportunities have opened doors for him. Though stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be challenging, Dennis encourages others to pursue their dreams and embrace new experiences. We must let go of that fear to reclaim our independence. This is Dennis’s journey beyond vision. Complete our contact form or call us at 531-365-5051 for more information about our services and programs.
