After knee replacements and other physical setbacks left Belinda unable to continue her work as a high school custodian, her employer set her up to begin retirement payouts - of $580 a month. With children to raise and expenses to pay, she knew that this stipend would never allow her to make ends meet. 

Following a friend's recommendation, Belinda applied to work at PRIDE Industries. Ten years later, she has not only found a new passion but has thrived at her job.

As a general maintenance worker in a carpentry shop in Ft. Johnson, Louisiana, Belinda has taken on the responsibility of the Environmental Compliance Program. By organizing and re-indexing the reference book detailing all of the chemicals and compounds needed for their carpentry work, she not only gained confidence in herself but also helped her colleagues. Her work has become a base-wide standard and is being taught to military personnel and workers outside the carpentry shop. 

In 2021, Belinda was recognized for her hard work by being selected as Employee of the Year.

PRIDE Industries has not just helped Belinda navigate her health and mobility issues but has also allowed her to take on jobs that she never thought she could have done before because others told her that she couldn’t. From driving lifts to cutting and installing flooring to leading tours of her shop, she is continuing to take on new challenges and learn from her peers. 

“This is the best job I’ve ever had!” said Belinda about her time in her role. “My management is great, and I have learned so much. It’s inspirational to have people around who you can ask for help.” The most rewarding part of every project is when she and her team finish a job, and can look back and take pride in their work.

For others looking to make the next move in their careers, Belinda’s advice is to never give up. “If you think you can’t do something, believe in yourself. There’s always someone there to help you. Keep on trying and get there.”