Stuhrenberg reaches his IDEAL dream through internship
Tristan Brew |
Igniting the Dream of Education and Access at Lipscomb (IDEAL) student Matt Stuhrenberg wanted to develop engaging video content for an organization that believed in him and utilized his video editing skills effectively.
This past summer Stuhrenberg was hired by Woodard Brothers, a fulfillment and distribution company located in the Berry Hill neighborhood of Nashville, that believes in him as well as the IDEAL program at Lipscomb University.
“I just kept in the back of my mind since I was 10 years old that I wanted to do something with video,” Stuhrenberg said. “Now that I have this job it gives me the opportunity to do on-site video and showcase my talents.”
With almost two months of work at Woodard Brothers, Stuhrenberg said he hopes to start filming video with drones soon.
“I haven’t had the opportunity to capture video with a drone, but I hope it’s soon,” he said.
Stuhrenberg said he considers himself very blessed and incredibly lucky. Whether he is speaking about Nashville, video editing or faith He reflects a vigor for life and gratitude for Woodard Brothers and the opportunities they have given him.
There were three thoughts that Stuhrenberg said helped him along his journey.
“I never gave up, have your faith intact and set your mind to something,” he said.
Through a collaborative effort between Tom Woodard, managing partner at Woodard Brothers, and Lipscomb’s IDEAL program, Woodard Brothers seeks IDEAL students like Stuhrenberg to provide them with a strong, exciting and diverse work environment that attempts to meet their special needs.
“Our integrated workforce of special needs and able-bodied people, makes for an amazing place to work every day.” said Woodard.
Woodard is impressed by his employees’ incredible talents and contributions to Woodard Brothers.
“They are the ones who come to work everyday with a ‘special gift,’ and it is what makes this place [Woodard Brothers] such a special place to be and work at for all of us.”
Launched in January 2014 by Lipscomb’s College of Education, the IDEAL program includes academic and skill-building classes, exercise sessions, daily internships, leisure time and a daily study period that prepares students like Stuhrenberg for the work world. The IDEAL program is a two-year certificate program that provides education and workplace training to students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.
If you would like additional information about how to businesses can partner with the IDEAL program, email Chandler Ashcraft.
Want to know more about the IDEAL program at Lipscomb? Click here.