DVR Newsletter - March, 2020 Success Story

When the Doctor Says You Can't Do That Job Anymore

Scott Martin worked construction his whole life, over 30 years. He spent the last 5 years on the North Slope as a roustabout lead for Alaska Energy Services, using cranes and heavy equipment to assist in pad maintenance throughout the field and the building of new Well Houses. It was tough work, but work Scott knew and enjoyed. "I like physical labor and seeing a finished product showing a job well-done," Scott said.

But the many years of this work took its toll and, after having his left shoulder replaced twice and both his knees replaced, Scott's doctor said he couldn't continue and it was time for an office job.

"My first thought was, 'No way! Are you kidding me?' I did not think office work would be for me," Scott said, "and I wondered how I could even get a job like that, because I had no experience."

Wondering what to do next, Scott was referred to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) by his insurance provider. He met with a DVR counselor and together they looked at his skills and interests, the challenges he faced, and came up with a matching job goal and a plan to get there.

To deal with his lack of experience, Scott took on a 2 year Associate's Degree program. While studying until 2 a.m. was challenging, his DVR counselor provided support, such as showing him how to use a SmartPen to make note taking easier. Well supported and determined, he completed the program with a 3.55 grade point average. Soon after, he was hired by the State of Alaska as a Supply Tech 1.

While the new job required new skills, like using the State's complex database system, Scott was prepared and the future looks bright thanks to his hard work and DVR's support.
"It's a positive, great program, I highly recommend it. As long as you are putting in the effort, they will put in 100%."