Meet Giovanni B.: An Architectural Technology Graduate Looking for the Right Opportunity
This National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), CEL is celebrating the value, talent, and possibilities that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities bring to the workplace.
Meet Giovanni B., a CEL Employment member with an associate degree in Architectural Technology, specialized training in computer-aided design (CAD), and hands-on experience in the field. He has spent years building his skills and pursuing his interests. Now, he’s looking for an opportunity to put them to work.
For Giovanni, a career in design drafting would allow him to combine his creativity, technical knowledge, and attention to detail to contribute to meaningful projects. He holds an associate degree and a certificate in Architectural Technology from the College of DuPage, along with a certificate in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) from Harper College. Giovanni hopes to find a job in design drafting where he can apply his skills, continue growing professionally, and work toward his career goals.
Turning Education Into Experience
After years of learning and developing his skills, Giovanni is ready to put his education and passion into practice.
He first connected with CEL through the Illinois Department of Human Services. After initially signing up to work with CEL’s Employment Program, Giovanni decided to continue his education before entering the workforce.
Through connections made by CEL Employment Specialist Don Miner and CEL Board President Lane Epstein, Giovanni was introduced to an architect and earned a spot in an internship cohort, where he gained hands-on experience in the field.
That connection led to a one-week summer internship with GREC, now known as Offset Architecture. During his internship, Giovanni worked with architectural drawings and designs. His responsibilities included tagging and cleaning up designs, labeling walls in drawings, and working with architectural wall sections.
His curiosity about Architectural Technology continues to grow as he explores different styles and approaches to design. The internship experience allowed Giovanni to apply what he learned in the classroom in a professional setting while gaining a closer look at the work he hopes to pursue.
Building What Comes Next
Today, Giovanni is looking for his next opportunity to continue developing his skills and contribute to the field of Architectural Technology. He loves learning about buildings and exploring the ideas, designs, and details that make each one unique. Some of his favorite buildings include the Eames House, Villa Savoye, and the Farnsworth House.
This NDEAM, we celebrate his accomplishments and ask local businesses to consider how Giovanni’s education, experience, and passion might fit an opportunity on their team.
At CEL, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to belong, contribute, and pursue a meaningful career. Employment is about more than finding a job. It is about connecting people with opportunities that align with their interests, skills, and goals.
Do you know of an opportunity that could help Giovanni take the next step toward a career in Architectural design drafting?
CEL’s Employment Program works alongside employers to create meaningful employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
If your company or business is interested in becoming a CEL Employment Partner, learn more at ExperienceCEL.org/employ.
You belong at CEL!
Programs are centered on YOU! Choose from a wide range of social, recreational, and educational enrichment programs available seven days a week. Check out our program guide and learn how to get started today!
Enrich lives today!
Your donation will transform and enrich the lives of our members with intellectual and developmental disabilities.