"You may have a fresh start at any moment you choose, for this thing that we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down."

The Akron Townsend Learning Center helped Mark Shadoan reach his goals! After sustaining a devastating shoulder injury in 2006, he came to Townsend Learning Center's Work Adjustment program. Today Mark is employed as a Sterile Processing Technician and works at a large urban hospital in the Akron area.  

Mr. Shadoan worked for the same employer for 26 years doing chrome plating. In 2006, Mark was injured on the job.  He had torn his left shoulder and ultimately underwent two surgeries and extensive physical therapy to address the injury.  Over time he became aware that he would be unable to return to his job or any other job with such physical demands.  He was dealing with pain and was very anxious to resume work that he could do in the context of his physical restrictions. 

Mark began his new career path by working with Rachael Xiong and Gretchen Snyder, Case Managers who referred him to Townsend Learning Center.  He participated in Townsend's Work Adjustment Program where he rebuilt his stamina, developed computer and office skills, and adjusted his sense of work identity so that he could more comfortably move out of a labor based job.  Mark was assisted with developing the skills and confidence he needed to return to school at the University of Akron and received an International Certification in Sterile Processing and Distribution Techniques. Mark then participated in Job Search Skills Training and Placement Services at Townsend and was assisted with the development of his marketing materials and finding a job. This led him to his job at the hospital.

From the start, Mark was eager to learn and had a great attitude!  Work Adjustment helped Mark to gain proficiency in Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. He worked on his keyboarding speed and participated in seminars that refined his business professionalism, renewed his self- confidence, and facilitated his post-injury return to work adjustment. According to Mark and his family, he loves his new job and is thrilled to be featured as a successful graduate of Townsend!  Congratulations Mark!

When people ask you "What do you do?", you can finesse your answer using these tips:

1. Less is More: Provide just enough information to start a lively conversation. Think billboard, not full-page ad!

2. It's not about you: Think about your listener, what does she want to know? What would spark more questions?

3. Let go of your ego: Try to avoid a series of "I statements." Show your enthusiasm for what you do, not who you are!

4. Be Buyer-Driven: Typically we try to sell ourselves. Instead, focus on what your listener would want when they work with you.

5. Practice, practice, practice: Repeat your succinct, buyer-driven elevator speech in the mirror. Be articulate and enthusiastic!

Adapted from Elevate Your Elevator Speech by Phil Stella, Stellar Presentations