USA. General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee has received national recognition for its part in the Project SEARCH jobs programme for young adults with disabilities.
General Mitchell received First Place in the Partnering with Concessionaires/Service Providers category at the 2018 Airports Council International (ACI) North America Marketing and Communications Conference in Ottawa, Canada last month.
As reported, the airport collaborated with Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, airport restaurateur HMSHost, and airport retailer Paradies Lagardère on the programme.
Project SEARCH is a business-led, school-to-work transition programme. Six interns received training from both Paradies Lagardère and HMSHost and worked across their concessions at General Mitchell.
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele said: “I thank HMSHost, Paradies Lagardère, and Goodwill Industries for offering this outstanding programme and employing individuals that are sometimes overlooked in our community.
“Congratulations to General Mitchell International and our partners on receiving this award. Project SEARCH has been such a big success at the airport and at the Milwaukee County Zoo. In fact, we’re looking to expand it to other departments as Milwaukee County continues to empower people and strengthen our community.”
General Mitchell International Airport Director Brian Dranzik commented: “This marks the first time Project SEARCH has been successfully implemented at an airport in the USA and we couldn’t be more thrilled to receive this award from ACI.
“There’s nothing better than being recognised by your peers, and once again General Mitchell shows that it’s on the leading edge of airports nationwide.”
“Initiatives such as Project SEARCH are integral to not only the young adults with disabilities it assists through its intern programme, but the community at large.”
Five of the six interns have already achieved permanent employment opportunities, and the sixth is very close to securing employment.
HMSHost Director of Operations Robert Kiepert added: “HMSHost is thrilled to be a part of this inspiring programme, helping adults with disabilities gain access to stable jobs, training, and a positive workplace environment.
“Working with Goodwill and Project SEARCH is an incredible opportunity to engage with the local community and the Airport. Furthermore, it has led to some great memories created with each new group of interns. Congratulations to General Mitchell.”
Paradies Lagardère General Manager Lori Becker said: “I’d like to congratulate General Mitchell Airport for this recognition. Initiatives such as Project SEARCH are integral to not only the young adults with disabilities it assists through its intern programme, but the community at large.
“Paradies Lagardère participates in a wide variety of events in communities throughout the year. We are always looking for new ways to help and believe in making a positive difference in the lives of our employees, business partners and customers.”