By Maddy Phillips, Communications
Caleb, a student at Carson Graham Secondary School, has been working at the Education Services Centre (ESC) since October 2023 as part of the Work Experience program (WEX). He works one day per week assisting with inter-office mail and package deliveries. Accompanied by one of his job coaches Tracy Day or Shannon McCallum, he has quickly become a valued member of the office. Caleb is known for his upbeat personality and love of engaging with people.
When Caleb and I met for this interview, he made it clear his passion for his role extends beyond the typical responsibilities of his position. Unofficially, he has taken on the role of Accessibility Inspector, assessing the building for its inclusivity. While the floors in the building that are available to the public have automatic doors, behind the scenes as an employee Caleb has encountered several challenges, such as manual entry doors, fob access points positioned too high, and doorways that are difficult to maneuver in his power chair. Caleb’s insights have shed light on barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, leading to recommendations about the need for better accessibility measures in workplaces.
“No one, except people in wheelchairs, fully understand the struggle I go through.”
Despite the challenges, Caleb’s independence and confidence shine through. “I feel invincible,” said Caleb when talking about how his power chair has empowered him to explore the world on his terms. When he’s not working or focused on school, he enjoys playing video games and discovering new places in the city. These activities not only bring him joy but also fuel his critical eye for inclusive design. His adventures are often infiltrated by moments of reflection on how the world can become more accommodating for everyone.
While delivering inter-office mail to the Communications department, Caleb shows off the standing 'Transformers' mode on his power chair.
Looking ahead, Caleb has clear career goals. He hopes to work in the field of assistive technology, specifically selling and providing power chairs to others with disabilities. Having experienced firsthand the freedom and independence a power chair can provide, Caleb is passionate about helping others achieve the same sense of empowerment. His dream is to create a world where everyone, regardless of visible or invisible disabilities, can navigate life with ease and dignity.
Caleb’s work experience has not only allowed him to grow personally and professionally but has also highlighted the importance of accessibility in workplaces. His determination, kindness, and forward-thinking vision for a more inclusive world make him an advocate for change. Caleb remains steadfast in his mission to ensure that no one is left behind—whether it’s in a school district office, a city street, or anywhere else life takes him.
