September 7, 2021
Michael’s move to GT reflected his lifelong mission. That mission is greater inclusion, and it is his passion. It comes from his own experiences as a person living with a learning disability and ADHD. He joined the company in 2020 and brought along his experience, passion, and drive to support people with disabilities.
From Government Relations Expert to Podcast Co-Host
Michael and his team oversee many relationships. They lead business development, help expand GT’s services, and handle government relations. They work with federal and state agencies and representatives to expand self-direction. Additionally, Michael and his team oversee corporate social responsibility, marketing, and innovation.
Michael also co-host’s GT’s recently launched podcast, Disability Garrison, with CEO Holly Carmichael. The show is a safe place to talk about issues that people with disabilities face every single day.
Making a Difference One Hire at a Time
Before GT, Michael was the director of the employer policy team at the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. His goal was to have more people with disabilities included in the workforce. He brought business and government leaders together to make that happen. He was also the deputy director of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. He drove workforce initiatives with diverse groups and communities.
Michael helped the federal government hire 100,000 people with disabilities over a period of five years.
Big Plans for the Future
The next era of GT energizes Michael. He has seen how powerful self-direction can be for someone living with a disability. And he wants to give people freedom to choose how they live to open up new possibilities.
Thank you, Michael, for your work to create more inclusive communities. And for helping make more people aware of self-direction.