Ms. Debra Little launched her drive for employment through the DORS Landover office, eventually finding a job at the Goddard Space Flight Center. Ms. Little was disabled due to the effects of a trauma.
Ms. Little learned of the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) from a friend who had undergone leg amputations. The friend encouraged her to believe that DORS could help her gain the skills she needed in order to independently live, work, and to provide for herself and her children.
DORS staff arranged for a Career Assessment at the Workforce & Technology Center, a comprehensive work training facility operated by DORS in Baltimore. She continued there in an Office Technology training program. She also participated in other support services designed to prepare her for work.
Ms. Little stressed that “it was the entire WTC team working together” that helped bring out her full potential. The team helped her overcome the aftermath of trauma. She took part in vocational training. Ms. Little stated, “(Her instructor) taught me the real expectations of work, and she did not honey coat it. She taught me to be innovative, to take the lead and not just wait for orders.”
DORS arranged for additional job training at Prince George’s Community College to specifically prepare her for an Administrative Assistant position at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. This training led to a paying job with a good wage and medical benefits. She covers office functions with ease and flexibility.
She is responsible for supporting the Earth Explorer and Rapid Spacecraft Development Office Mission. Skills such as establishing and keeping accurate records, schedules and costs are crucial in this job. All the support services and training that DORS provided to Debra has paid off. Specific skills in Microsoft Office, Windows 98, and Outlook E-mail all helped her become qualified and ready for her job.
“You need to feel empowered and don’t let pride get in your way. Take on challenges and work for the future; challenge yourself to be all you can be.” She points to the wall next to her office and says, “Can you imagine my name on a NASA wall?”
