Sheffield, Iowa-
There is a lot that happens in the bin assembly area at Sukup Manufacturing Co. It is also where you will find Mark Meyer hard at work. He is one of hundreds of people employed by the family-owned and operated business. But for Mark, it is a job that has changed his life for the better.
“It keeps my brain and my mind moving. It gives me purpose, to work in a team environment,” Mark says.
Mark is part of the Vocational Rehabilitation Services program with the Iowa Workforce Development. Their mission states, “We provide expert, individualized services to Iowans with disabilities to achieve their independence through successful employment and economic support.”
That means an opportunity to work despite his disability.
Recently, Iowa Workforce Development honored Sukup Manufacturing Co. for its partnership in hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities. The October 24th event not only recognized Sukup’s efforts, but it allowed Mark to stand before those attending and express his gratitude for the company that hired him.
“Sukup worked with me to find my strengths and to support me in finding things that would meet their needs and also my disabilities,” Mark explains. His job in the West Building is the right fit.
According to Emily Schmitt, 3rd generation Sukup family member, this goes far beyond staffing. Speaking at the same event as Mark, Emily points out the intentionality behind the hires.
“Getting employees like Mark and others provides them with more meaningful and purposeful employment.”
Emily talked about efforts to find the right fit between what a person can do as part of the team and what the company needs from a team member. That extends to an employee’s family as well.
Mark’s wife Esther also works at the world’s largest family-owned and operated manufacturer of grain storage, drying, and handling products.
Not long ago, Steve Sukup, President/CEO of Sukup Manufacturing Co. and second-generation family member, secured the Clear Lake site for the new dryer facility.
They contacted OneVision, a Clear Lake-based non-profit organization, that supports those with disabilities. Emily saw the positives after she once served on the OneVision board. She and Steve agreed it was time to reach out for hiring purposes.
“I was brought up to reflect those values and participate in different outreach. It takes someone to make a change,” Emily insists. Over the years, Sukup has made this program part of their hiring process.
Steve remains committed to The Harkin Institute for Public Policy & Citizen Engagement where he sits as a board member. The institute works to connect people with policy, including those with disabilities.
Emily adds, “Together, we are only going to get more committed to the cause.”
October marks Iowa Workforce Development’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The recent event in Clear Lake honored Sukup's commitment to excellence.