When you grow up one town south of Midland, Michigan (where The Dow Chemical Company is headquartered), you are aware of Dow's presence seemingly from birth. So it was for Jeff Lichon. Now, after time at two other companies and graduating from business school, Jeff is growing his career at the company he has known for so long.
Jeff has found Dow's work environment to be positive and supportive. He has encountered a company that has put forth a genuine effort to provide the opportunity and the tools necessary for success. On a practical level, the company has made sure that Jeff, who uses a wheelchair, has physical access to the building and can complete his work comfortably. Beyond that, his colleagues have included him completely, focusing on him and not his disability.
Jeff's time has been a two-way learning experience. For coworkers who have never worked with a colleague with a disability, interactions with Jeff have helped them to feel more comfortable. Jeff is learning that he can thrive when he feels great about going to work everyday.
With potential assignments at locations outside of Midland as part of the Public Affairs Development Program, Jeff may soon have the opportunity to see other parts of Dow. But his journey is confirmation of Dow's reputation for being a great place to work he has heard since he was young. |