Workplace Accessibility and Career Growth for Visually Impaired Employees

Vivian Fridas is the Public Policy Specialist at National Industries for the Blind (NIB), an organization that expands employment opportunities for people who are blind. She advocates for disability inclusion and chairs NIB's Blind and Visually Impaired Advisory Council.

Charles (Charlie) Mitchell is the Assistant General Counsel at NIB, where he provides legal guidance and serves on the Blind and Visually Impaired Advisory Council.

Scott Collins is the Contract Management Support Program Manager at NIB, where he oversees program contracts and advocates for professional growth through the Blind and Visually Impaired Advisory Council.

Kayla Rosemeyer is the Essentially the Same (ETS) Specialist at NIB, where she manages product databases and supports leadership development through the Blind and Visually Impaired Advisory Council.

Creating an accessible workplace means more than providing the right tools and accommodations. Blind and visually impaired employees also need a voice in workplace decisions and meaningful opportunities to advance their careers. How can organizations build a culture where accessibility and professional growth go hand in hand?

Vivian Fridas, Charlie Mitchell, Scott Collins, and Kayla Rosemeyer believe meaningful inclusion starts with listening to blind and visually impaired employees and involving them in workplace decisions. Vivian explains how everyday barriers can be avoided when accessibility is considered from the beginning. Charlie emphasizes turning employee experiences into lasting workplace practices, while Scott encourages employees to step outside their comfort zones and pursue new opportunities. Kayla highlights leadership development resources that help employees build confidence and prepare for promotions. Together, they show how accessibility, mentorship, and professional growth create a workplace where everyone feels valued.

In this episode of Heard & Empowered, Dean Thompson talks with National Industries for the Blind's Vivian Fridas, Charlie Mitchell, Scott Collins, and Kayla Rosemeyer about workplace accessibility and career growth. They discuss involving employees in workplace decisions, addressing everyday accessibility barriers, creating leadership pathways, and the importance of mentorship and community.