Bestwork Industries for the Blind, Inc. (Bestwork) employee Warren Walker received national recognition as National Industries for the Blind’s (NIB) 2022 Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year recipient.  Walker was celebrated during the Focus Forward NIB/NAEPB Training Conference and Expo in October and received a check for $5,000.

The award recognizes the outstanding work and achievements of people who are blind working at NIB-associated agencies across the nation. It is named after Dr. Peter J. Salmon, a man who greatly impacted the passage of the Wagner-O’Day Act, and was instrumental in the formation of NIB. 

“I’m extremely honored to have been selected for this award,” said Walker. “To be recognized with so many other incredible honorees is extremely humbling. I’m thankful to my family and Bestwork for their never-ending support.” 

Walker lost his vision in 2002, which ended his 20-year career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), but it led him to Bestwork, the largest employer for people who are blind or visually impaired in New Jersey. He just celebrated his 20^th Anniversary in September.  

As a husband and father, Walker was driven to provide for his family regardless if he had vision or not. He began working as a sewing operator after completing Bestwork’s training program. He learned to operate a sewing machine and sew military garments the agency manufactures for the Department of Defense. After 13 years, Walker’s finger dexterity diminished so he transitioned to a packing role and has held this role ever since.  

Walker became the person Bestwork staff and his colleagues could depend on, often listening and providing helpful guidance or words of wisdom. He rose among the plant staff as the ‘voice of the people,’ volunteering to serve on the Employee Relations and Safety Committees, and was appointed chair of the Quality Work Environment (QWE) for several years. These committees discuss employee concerns and provide actionable solutions for resolution.  

“This is a tremendous honor for Warren,” said President and CEO Jon Katz. “Warren’s journey to this moment has not been an easy one, but it demonstrates grace through resilience. He is a shining example of hard work and dedication, not just to the agency, but also to his colleagues. And to be recognized for his achievements on a national level is exciting. We can’t wait to celebrate with him.” 

This is also a big honor for Bestwork, as it is the first time anyone from the agency has won.