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To kick off National Disability Employment Awareness Month we’re starting with George Urrea, an architect and paraplegic from Georgia. Read George’s employment journey below.
In the comments, please share if you are ❤ working post spinal cord injury, 💚when you started, and 💙 what you love most about your job 👍
Name?
George Urrea
How and When Were You Injured?
Motorcycle accident in college (in his early 20s).
Level of Injury?
T7-9
Employment History Pre-Injury:
None. George was in college at the time of his injury and hadn’t worked before college.
Current Job?
George works as an architect and has been gainfully employed since graduating from college. He recently changed employers. “I started working at HKS in November 2022. I worked for Ware Malcolm before,” he says. As for his duties, he’s currently working on infrastructure improvement. “I am working at the aviation studio, helping with improvements to the Hartfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport.”
How Did You Find Your Job?
Since George is an architect, he was able to receive job search assistance from The American Institute of Architects, an organization that helps new architects and experienced architects find a job, and not stopping the search until they’ve helped them secure one.
What Kind of Disability Accommodations Do You Require?
Other than a wheelchair accessible desk, George doesn’t need any specific disability work accommodations.
Do You Have Tips for Getting Hired?
“Don’t share your disability prior to the job interview.”
Advice for Maintaining Employment Long-Term?
“Make sure to share your limitations with your employer.”
If You Could Go Back in Time, What Advice Would You Give Yourself Before Pursuing Your Career Path?
“Your health should always be first, and then your job.”
Is There Anything Else You’d Like to Say About Employment After a Spinal Cord Injury?
“Working helps you mentally to keep going forward.”
— Follow George on IG at https://www.instagram.com/george2788atl/
ideas@spinalpedia.com
