Pilot Program- Creating Opportunities for Special Needs Jobs
Savage Precision’s Pilot Program
Savage Precision is a company founded on values. In particular, quality in all we do, especially in our relationship with our community. As a precision fabrication shop, our commitment to innovation goes beyond quick-turn manufacturing and machine shop efficiency. It extends to fostering inclusivity and supporting the communities we serve.
In 2024, we launched a pilot program to create meaningful special needs jobs. Our goal is to provide individuals with special needs a safe and supportive environment to gain work experience and contribute to the success of our business. This initiative is a reflection of Savage Precision’s values and dedication to doing what’s right for our employees, their families, and the community.
Why Savage Precision Started the Pilot Program
The inspiration for this program came from within our own Savage Precision family. Two of our employees are parents of children with special needs, and their stories resonate deeply with Savage’s President, Scott Gardner. Having witnessed the challenges and triumphs faced by families raising children with special needs – both within Savage Precision and in his personal life – Scott recognized an opportunity to make a difference.
“Our community is what brought us here,” Scott explained. “We want to make a profit, but we also want to create a workplace where people are happy to come to work.”
Partnering with 29 Acres, a nonprofit that specializes in creating supportive work and living environments for individuals with disabilities, Savage Precision took the first step by welcoming Eric, the son of one of our employees, into the pilot program.
Building a Routine and Contributing to Machine Shop Efficiency
Eric works two days a week for two hours at a time. His responsibilities aren’t busy work – they’re integral to maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient environment in our machine shop.
Some of Eric’s tasks include:
- Taking out the trash throughout the facility
- Cleaning and maintaining the breakroom
- Performing other shop maintenance tasks
By following a structured routine, Eric has built rapport with our team, made meaningful contributions to our workplace, and helped boost efficiency on the shop floor. His work helps ensure that Savage Precision operates smoothly, demonstrating how even seemingly small tasks can have a big impact on machine shop efficiency.
A Positive Impact on Employees and Families
The feedback from Eric, his family, his supervising employee, and his mentor from 29 Acres has been overwhelmingly positive. The experience has been enriching for everyone involved. Eric’s role not only helps him develop workplace skills but also fosters a sense of independence and achievement.
For Scott, this program is a deeply personal endeavor. “I have so much admiration for these parents,” he said. “Seeing their dedication and the incredible abilities present in the special needs community inspires us to do more.”
The benefits of this program extend beyond the immediate participants. It fosters a sense of pride and inclusivity among our entire team, reinforcing Savage Precision’s culture of support and mutual respect.
Reflecting Savage Precision’s Values
This initiative reflects Savage Precision’s broader commitment to inclusivity and community support. We believe in creating opportunities for everyone to contribute to our success, regardless of their circumstances. By providing special needs jobs, we’re addressing workplace challenges like maintaining cleanliness and safety while also giving back to the community that has supported us for so many years.
“At Savage Precision, we just do what feels right,” Scott explained. “And supporting our community is always the right thing to do.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Pilot Program
The success of this initial pilot program has encouraged us to think bigger. We’re already exploring ways to expand the initiative, creating more opportunities for individuals in the special needs community.
Some potential tasks for future participants include:
- Demasking parts by removing tape
- Performing repetitive, predictable work, such as simple assemblies
These tasks align perfectly with the strengths of many individuals with special needs, who often excel at precision and consistency. As Savage Precision grows and takes on more fabrication work, we see significant potential to involve more participants in this program, helping us meet our operational needs while positively impacting lives.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Excellence
For Savage Precision, this pilot program is just the beginning. It embodies our belief that success is not only measured by the quality of our precision parts but also by the quality of opportunities we create for others. By providing meaningful special needs employment, we’re building a workplace that values inclusivity, community, and mutual support.
If you’d like to learn more about Savage Precision or explore opportunities to partner with us, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us today.
