The IFB Beat 4-27 Edition

A Message from the Editor

This week’s IFB Beat is full of important updates and opportunities as we continue to grow and evolve together. Please plan to attend the general assembly on Tuesday, April 28, where leadership will share key updates on our building expansion and upcoming manufacturing changes. Your participation is important as we navigate these new developments.

We also appreciate your cooperation during ongoing roof repairs—your safety remains a top priority. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the new UMO Mobility app, with WSTA representatives onsite to assist.

Be sure to check out this week’s Employee Spotlight featuring Shannon Williams, sign up for the May blood drive and explore the new IFB Ascend program—an exciting pathway to support your professional growth.

Thank you for staying engaged and informed.

Quote of the week:

“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.” — Verna Myers

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

– Winston-Salem Facility: General Assembly, Tuesday, April 28
– Winston-Salem Facility: Blood Drive, Thursday, May 14
– 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 Shannon Williams, Workforce Services Team
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Artist Spotlight: OryAn Battis Releases “Angel on Earth”

HR & Opportunities

– Exciting Opportunity: IFB Ascend — A New Internal Development Pathway
– Job Opportunities

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

 

Winston-Salem Facility: General Assembly, Tuesday, April 28

There will be a general assembly held on the Winston-Salem facility manufacturing floor on Tuesday, April 28 at 10:30 a.m. Leadership will share updates on the building expansion, as we all have noticed the visible markings and ongoing roof repairs. We will also discuss upcoming manufacturing changes.

Supervisors, please be sure to shut down all equipment, fans and other things that contribute to noise on the manufacturing floor promptly at 10:30 a.m. If your workspace is not close to the central offices (outside Travis Guerra and Edward Sykes’ doors), please move closer to ensure you can hear. Any office administration working in the building, your presence will be appreciated. Thank you.

 

Winston-Salem Facility: Blood Drive, Thursday, May 14

The Winston-Salem facility Red Cross blood drive will be Thursday, May 14, from 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Your donations assist with heart surgeries, revitalizing accident victims, organ transplant recipients and patients needing lifesaving procedures. So, will you raise your sleeve and help someone have a second chance in life?

When: Thursday, May 14, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Where: TAD’s room, Winston-Salem facility

Contact your supervisor to set up an appointment to donate. Admin contact: Morgan Dugan at mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5612.

 

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. 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 Shannon Williams, Workforce Services Team

Shannon Williams doing computer-based work

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

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Q: How long have you been with IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I’ve been with IFB since November 17, 2025. I first learned about IFB in 2023 and applied for several customer service roles at that time. Although I wasn’t hired then, I continued applying for different positions over the next couple of years. In October 2025, Brent Burkholder told me about an opening in the Vital Records campaign, which really excited me—and now here I am.

Q: Do you have any fun facts or hidden talents you’d like to share?
A: I used to be a professional studio and live drummer in Los Angeles from 2000 to 2008. Two of my biggest achievements were performing on live television with the KTLA Channel 5 jazz band for Hurricane Katrina relief and appearing on an episode of the 2005 TV series Starting Over.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I enjoy playing computer games, watching sports like football and basketball and cooking steaks on the grill for my wife and me.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: You can’t beat a good green chili cheeseburger from New Mexico!

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: Two things stand out to me. First, I really appreciate the open-door culture of upper management. Second, it’s exciting to see how committed leadership is to creating opportunities for blind employees and supporting long-term employment.

Q: What’s a quote or piece of advice you would give to a friend?
A: Everything, including life itself, is temporary—so make the most of it, whatever that means to you.

Special thanks to Director of Professional Services Shannon Satterfield 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

 

 

From Our Community

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

Exciting Opportunity: IFB Ascend — A New Internal Development Pathway

We’re excited to introduce IFB Ascend—a new internal development pathway designed to support your growth and help prepare you for future advancement opportunities at IFB Solutions.

What Is IFB Ascend?

IFB Ascend is a career readiness and development program that helps employees build the skills, confidence and awareness needed to be considered for higher-level roles when business needs allow. While Ascend is not guaranteed promotion, it offers a structured and supportive way to:

  • Clarify your career goals
  • Better understand expectations of higher-level roles
  • Strengthen foundational skills (including computer and assistive technology skills, where applicable)
  • Prepare yourself for future opportunities across the organization

Who Is Eligible?

To be considered for IFB Ascend, employees must:

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Have at least 12 months of employment with IFB Solutions
  • Be in good standing, including consistent attendance, meeting performance expectations and no active disciplinary actions

Previous leadership training (such as Guilford College coursework) is preferred but not required—and is viewed as a positive indicator of readiness.

How the Process Works

The IFB Ascend process is clear, supportive and individualized. It is designed to help you succeed, not to disqualify you. If additional training or support is identified, development options may include:

  • Screen reader or assistive technology training
  • Computer or technical skill development
  • Other learning opportunities aligned with your goals

Our goal is to provide guidance, transparency and encouragement every step of the way.

How to Get Started

If IFB Ascend sounds like a good fit for you:

We encourage all associates who are interested in growing their skills and exploring future opportunities at IFB Solutions to consider IFB Ascend. We look forward to supporting your next steps!

All applications and supporting materials are due by May 8, 2026. Please reach out to Brent Burkholder at bburkholder@ifbsolutions.org with any additional questions you may have.

 

Job Opportunities

BSC Store Operations Level I, MacDill Air Force Base

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/217376

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/217376

Production Trainer, Winston-Salem

Education and Work Experience

  • Previous training experience preferred
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment preferred

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/217396

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/217397?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