The IFB Beat 4-20 Edition

A Message from the Editor

Welcome to this week’s edition of the IFB Beat! As always, we’re bringing you important updates, celebrations and stories that highlight the people and progress across IFB.

This week, we share an important safety reminder regarding ongoing roof repairs at our Winston-Salem facility—please take note of temporary changes to parking and walkway access. We also encourage you to stay informed about WSTA’s transition to a cashless system with the new UMO Mobility app, including an upcoming on-site visit where you can get hands-on support.

On a celebratory note, we are proud to recognize our latest JAWS training graduates. Their dedication to building new skills is inspiring and reflects the life-changing impact of workforce development at IFB. Be sure to also check out this week’s Employee Spotlight featuring Chris Gantt, whose journey and perspective are a great reminder of the value of growth, resilience and knowing your worth.

Thank you for staying connected—and as always, we’ll continue to keep you updated on what matters most.

Quote of the week:

“Success is best when it’s shared.” — Howard Schultz

Thank you for strolling the Beat. See you next week!

Anastasia Powell

IFB Solutions Communications Manager
apowell@ifbsolutions.org | 336-245-5698

 

Quick Links:

New this Week

– Reminder: Roof Repairs at the Winston-Salem Facility
– WSTA (Trans-Aid) Update: The UMO Mobility App is Now Live
– IFB Solutions Training and Services Update: Celebrating Our JAWS Training Graduates
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Chris Gantt, BSC Team, Tyndall Airforce Base
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Join Us for Gather Without Limits, April 25
– Artist Spotlight: OryAn Battis Releases “Angel on Earth”

HR & Opportunities

– IFB Retirement 401(k) Account
– Job Opportunities

IFB Beat Phone Lines
Support Group Zoom Meeting Links
Archived Editions of The IFB Beat

 

Reminder: Roof Repairs at the Winston-Salem Facility

Roof repairs are underway on the lower roof of the Winston-Salem facility. To accommodate equipment and materials, a large portion of the parking lot will be temporarily blocked off. In addition, sidewalk access from the administrative parking lot to the shopping center will be closed until further notice. For your safety, please do not attempt to bypass the barricades to access this area.

We will continue to keep you informed on the progress of this project through announcements and the IFB Beat. If you have any questions, please contact Steve Delph, Travis Guerra or Angela Jordan. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding.

 

WSTA (Trans-Aid) Update: The UMO Mobility App is Now Live

The wait is over! WSTA is transitioning to a cashless system, and the UMO Mobility app is now available, eliminating the need for paper bus passes.

WSTA representatives will be on site at the Winston-Salem campus on Tuesday, April 28, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to provide information about the new UMO app, answer questions and assist employees with creating Smart Card accounts. Employees who wish to set up a card account should be prepared to fund the card with cash at that time. Employees interested in attending should sign up with their supervisor. Two sessions will be held during this time, and employees will receive their assigned session by April 23. Please review the key details below. For additional details, visit the WSTA website: https://www.wstransit.com/umo.

  • Current bus passes remain valid through late summer/early fall.
  • You may download the UMO Mobility app on any compatible smartphone from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
    • QR codes for easy download are available in the canteen and on the employee information board.
  • No smartphone? No problem. Reloadable transit cards will be available once released.
    • Cards can be purchased at the Clark Campbell Transportation Center and at participating retailers throughout the city.
    • Please note: Cards will not be sold at IFB.
    • To protect your balance, WSTA recommends linking your card to an email address or phone number.
  • You may use either the mobile app or a reloadable card, not both.

 

IFB Solutions Training and Services Update: Celebrating Our JAWS Training Graduates

We are proud to recognize seven individuals who have taken an important step toward greater independence and career success through the completion of Basic JAWS (Job Access With Speech) training. 🎉 In March, the following graduates successfully, completing their training as part of our workforce development program:

  • Alexis Scott
  • Atreyu Dunson
  • Cammille Reynolds
  • Jim Pelfrey
  • Quanese Sparkman
  • Zach Elliott

We also extend our congratulations to Gabriel Rivera, who completed Basic JAWS training on April 10.

Learning JAWS is more than just mastering a tool—it’s about unlocking opportunity. As one of the most widely used screen readers in the workplace, JAWS empowers individuals who are blind or visually impaired to confidently navigate computers, access information and perform essential job functions. These skills are critical in preparing for today’s workforce, where technology plays a central role in nearly every career path.

Through dedication and hard work, each of these graduates has strengthened their job readiness—gaining the confidence and technical ability needed to pursue meaningful employment, expand their independence and engage more fully in their communities. From writing emails and managing files to navigating workplace systems, their new skills will serve as a strong foundation for future success.

We celebrate not only this achievement, but also the determination it represents. The journey toward employment can come with challenges, but these individuals have shown they are ready to take the next step. Congratulations again to all of our graduates—we look forward to seeing where your skills and ambition take you next!

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Chris Gantt, BSC Team, Tyndall Airforce Base

Headshot of Chris Gantt

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we’re excited to feature Chris Gantt.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Charlotte, NC

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB Solutions for 7.5 years. What drew me to the organization was a conversation with a former employee who shared all the incredible things IFB was doing in the Winston-Salem community. Hearing about that impact made me want to be a part of it.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: That’s a loaded question! I like to think I’m good at several things, though I wouldn’t necessarily call them hidden talents. One fun fact about me—I’ve never played in the dirt. I know most people have as kids, but not me!

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: Since relocating to Florida, I tend to stay indoors more—I’m not a fan of bugs or humidity. But growing up near the mountains, I’ve always enjoyed hiking, walking trails, attending live music events and seeking out new adventures. That said, from October to April in Panama City, the weather is beautiful, and I spend a lot of time enjoying the local parks.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: Alfredo-based lasagna

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: There are many things I’ve appreciated over the years, but a few stand out. I value being able to build on the skills I brought with me when I joined in October 2018. It means a lot to work for a company that recognizes and values my experience. Most importantly, I’ve had the opportunity to broaden my horizons and take on new challenges—because challenges keep your skills sharp.

Q: What’s a quote or word of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: Know your worth and value, and don’t be afraid of a challenge. Never let anyone tell you what you can achieve.

Special thanks to General Manager Teresa Jackson (Tyndall Airforce Base) for supporting these highlights. Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

If you’re interested in attending a support group, please review the update here: https://ifbsolutions.org/the-ifb-beat-12-16-edition/#two-d

Support group meeting for the week: Veterans support group, Tuesday, April 21, 12–1 p.m. in TADS Room.

 

From Our Community

Join Us for Gather Without Limits, April 25

Submitted by Winston-Salem MCPD

This is a fun, free and inclusive community event where different abilities come together to build real connection.

Event details: April 25, 1–4 p.m. at Incendiary Brewing Company, 486 N Patterson Ave #105, Winston Salem, NC 27101

Expect an easygoing afternoon filled with board games, live music, pizza and a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Parking is available on Fourth Street and Patterson Avenue, with two parking decks right beside the brewery for convenience.

Whether you joined us last time or it has been a while, we would truly love to see you back. Bring a friend, come as you are and be part of a community that celebrates everyone.

RSVP here: Gather Without Limits. If you have any questions, contact Ashley Williams at (336) 757 0907.

 

Artist Spotlight: OryAn Battis Releases “Angel on Earth”

Submitted by OryAn Battis

We’re proud to shine a light on OryAn Battis, a talented musician who is blind and actively pursuing an exciting career in the music industry. OryAn continues to channel his creativity, passion and lived experience into music that connects with listeners in a deeply personal way.

His newest single, “Angel on Earth,” is a heartfelt track inspired by the idea of a “future someone”—a reflection on the kind of partner he hopes to one day find. Blending sincerity with a touch of humor, OryAn shares his vision of love through thoughtful lyrics and a smooth, engaging sound.

This release is another step forward in his artistic journey, demonstrating not only his musical ability but also his determination to build a meaningful career in a competitive industry. Artists like OryAn remind us how important it is to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired as they pursue their dreams and break down barriers.

🎧 Listen to “Angel on Earth” here: https://music.apple.com/us/album/angel-on-earth-single/1885415211

You can also follow OryAn’s growing music catalog and stay connected with his latest releases on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.

How You Can Help: Supporting artists like OryAn can be as simple as streaming his music, sharing his work with others and following his journey online. Every listen, like and share helps amplify his voice and opens doors to new opportunities. Join us in celebrating OryAn Battis and his inspiring path in the music industry.

 

HR & Opportunities

IFB Retirement 401(k) Account

There are three ways to connect with your retirement account in a way that works best for you.

1. Contact the Ascensus call center: 855-593-7279, Monday–Friday | 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

2. Access your account online. Visit firstcitizens.com/retirement.

First-time login instructions:

  • User ID: Your Social Security number (format: 999009999 — no dashes)
  • Password: Your date of birth (MonthDDYYYY), Example: June 4, 1982 = June041982

3. Manage your 401(k) on the go. Download the READYSAVE mobile app to access your account anytime, anywhere.

 

Job Opportunities

Sewing Machine Operator II, Asheville

Education and Work Experience

  • Prior experience operating automatic machines.
  • Successful completion of Machine Operator I training.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/215875

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/215876?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

BSC Store Operations Level III, McGuire AFB

Education and Work Experience

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Training while on the job will be provided.

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/216279

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/216280?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

For all current openings, visit https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909. For more information, please contact a member of the recruitment team at careers@ifbsolutions.org.

 

IFB Beat Phone Lines

English line: 336-245-5691

Spanish line: 336-245-5663

 

Zoom Meeting Links

Support Group Zoom

https://ifbsolutions.zoom.us/j/86167111929?pwd=G9vSBWcnTFrMHixqb19TpU7q8sQW1N.1

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929
Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile:
+13126266799,86167111929# US (Chicago)
+16465588656,86167111929# US (New York)
888 475 4499 US Toll-free
877 853 5257 US Toll-free