Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary
Department of Workforce Development
Secretary’s Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – Nearly six years ago, Eddie P. went to work as usual at his Milwaukee-based manufacturing job. While there, he suffered a significant neck and back injury and was unable to return to work. Doctors later determined that the injury was caused by compressed nerve roots, which made it difficult for him to turn his neck and weakened his hands. Ultimately, he underwent surgery to fuse several vertebrae.
At the time, Eddie was in his early 40s and had always worked in physically demanding jobs. But that type of work was no longer possible after his injury. During the time of his multi-year recovery, he faced a new challenge – what to do next and how to stay employed. One of his doctors told him about the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), and he reached out.
After his eligibility was determined, Eddie became one of 19,000 Wisconsin workers with disabilities who receive services from DVR at any given time. DVR offers training, internships, assistive technology, interviewing assistance, on-the-job support, and other services across 38 locations statewide. This program helps people like Eddie find a job, keep a job, or get a better job.
With his physical limitations, Eddie needed a new goal and pathway toward employment. Together with his vocational rehabilitation counselor, Demi Hahnfeld, he established an Individualized Plan for Employment focused on a customer service role.
“[Demi] made feel like I could get back into the workforce and not be ashamed of my challenges,” said Eddie.
“When I first met Eddie in July 2024, he faced multiple physical limitations, so finding a fit for meaningful employment felt like it might be a challenge,” said Demi. ”But over the course of this past year, Eddie’s perseverance and openness made all the difference. His kind and helpful character makes customer service an excellent fit for him.”
Through Demi’s work and partnerships with DVR vendors and service providers, Eddie was authorized to set up a remote workstation in his home. Services and equipment included computer training and office supplies such as an ergonomic chair, motorized desk, monitors, keyboard, tablet, and other assistive technology. He also received services to create a resume and conduct mock interviews.
During this time, a Pewaukee-based electrician firm, Trusted Electric, joined a local networking group that connected them to a DVR service provider, Accessibility Career Options (ACO) of Milwaukee. Their discussions about seeking a customer service representative led Jeff Kult, owner of Trusted Electric, over to DVR – and ultimately to Eddie.
After interviewing Eddie for a customer service role, DVR initiated a temporary work experience at Trusted Electric. “Through the DVR temporary work experience, adaptive technology, and an accommodating employer, Eddie discovered a role where his strengths and personality can shine,” said Demi.
Today, Eddie is employed full time as a guest relations/administator at Trusted Electric. He manages scheduling, answering and making calls, requests information from clients, pays bills, files for electrical permits, troubleshoots software issues, and even conducts webinars on various topics.
“Anything Jeff needs to help him keep the toolbox on, I’m happy to do for him!” said Eddie.
“I honestly couldn’t tell you enough great things about Eddie,” said Jeff. “From the initial interview we had, his character and enthusiasm stood out. Eddie has been with us for about six months now and is an asset to this team.”
Jeff says the DVR program has helped his small business tremendously and that hiring a customer relations representative was an easy process from the start.
“This is about providing opportunity,” said Jeff. “A disability doesn’t count people out. There may be certain things or tasks impacted, but that teaches us to really highlight their strengths.”
“Being a business owner is not only about growing our services and brand within the community, but it is also about providing opportunity,” Jeff continued. “It’s my understanding there is a giant pool of people like Eddie, hungry for opportunity and more than capable. You hear nowadays ‘it’s tough to find good people;’ well, sometimes you need to look where others may not be looking. More employers should explore this!”
“Being part of Eddie’s journey has been an incredible privilege,” said Demi. “It’s remarkable what can unfold when determination meets opportunity.”
As for Eddie, he has settled into his role, and in summer 2025, he and Demi officially closed his DVR case.
“It’s hard to put into words how DVR has affected my career path because it goes beyond just a job,” said Eddie. “It’s a confidence I now have that I wasn’t sure I’d ever get back. I will take that with me into the future.”
ABOUT DWD
Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin’s diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker’s Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.