From the Editor: Nikki Jackson is the energetic employment programs lead at the National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute and works in collaboration with our Employment Committee chaired by Lia Stone. Here is Nikki’s report of employment-related events that took place at the National Convention:
Employment Committee Meeting
The Employment Committee Meeting took place on the morning of July 8 and served as the kickoff event for three employment-related sessions held during the National Convention. Led by Lia Stone, Chair of the Employment Committee, the meeting began with an overview of the committee’s projects and accomplishments over the past year. Highlights included the planning and execution of a virtual career fair as well as additional career fairs at the 2025 Washington Seminar and 2024 National Convention.
The committee also hosted virtual preparatory sessions for jobseekers and supported the continued success of the quarterly "Where the Blind Work" webinar series. Most notably, the committee worked to support blind federal employees who were adversely affected by recent government layoffs. In response, the committee organized a series of Career Development virtual sessions aimed at sharing information and easing the employment transition for those impacted.
The meeting also included a time for open discussion, during which attendees shared feedback on current initiatives and proposed ideas for future projects. A diverse group—employers, jobseekers, and professionals—were present and engaged.
One particularly significant topic that emerged was the inaccessibility of AI-driven application and interview platforms, especially within the private sector. Attendees reported that many employers are requiring candidates to complete digital tasks that are not accessible to blind applicants—a practice that presents clear barriers and perpetuates discrimination. In response, the committee discussed initiating the development of a resolution to hold companies accountable for inaccessible hiring practices. Lia Stone committed to following up on this action item to determine appropriate next steps.
Seeking Success Seminar
Held on July 8, the Seeking Success Seminar featured a series of dynamic and informative presentations centered around career growth, exploration, and transition. A representative from the National Blindness Professional Certification Board opened the session with a presentation highlighting career opportunities in blindness rehabilitation. The speaker emphasized the critical importance of this field within the blind community and encouraged attendees to consider it as a meaningful career path.
A standout moment was a panel discussion moderated by Lia Stone and featuring Jennifer Wenzel (Wisconsin), Briley O’Connor (Minnesota), and Robert Parsons (Michigan). The panelists shared personal stories about pivoting careers and finding success in new industries. Attendees praised the session as highly engaging and motivating.
Lia Stone also delivered a well-received presentation on LinkedIn best practices, offering actionable strategies for jobseekers to enhance their presence on this popular career-focused social network. She shared her own journey—from resisting LinkedIn to becoming an enthusiastic advocate for its value—and emphasized how the platform can serve as a vital tool for networking and career development, especially for blind professionals.
The seminar concluded with inspirational testimonials from Derique Simon and Lina Howard (both of Maryland), who participated in the 2024 National Convention Career Fair and successfully secured employment as a result. Now working as instructors in the Adult Adjustment to Blindness Training Program at Blind Industries and Services of Maryland, they shared practical tips, lessons learned, and the importance of persistence during the job search process.
Career Fair
The 2025 National Convention Career Fair was held on July 9, featuring nineteen participating employers and nearly two hundred jobseekers. Notable attendees included Marriott, the NFB-affiliated training centers (including the newly renamed Minnesota Center for the Blind), and several other organizations committed to inclusive hiring. A major highlight of the event was the participation of Bloomberg LP, joining the career fair for the first time. Their engagement and enthusiasm quickly made them the standout employer of the event.
Jobseekers expressed a growing interest in pursuing careers aligned with the corporate sector, signaling a clear need to continue building strong relationships with corporate employers. The event reaffirmed the importance of expanding access, creating meaningful connections, and ensuring blind professionals have the tools and opportunities to pursue equitable and fulfilling careers.