#USA #Jacksonville #Michaels #Path Robotics #Global Disability Inclusion

Global Disability Inclusion's New Certification Program

On November 4, 2025, Global Disability Inclusion, renowned for its commitment to enhancing disability employment and workplace engagement, announced the introduction of its innovative Disability Inclusion Program Seal. This certification aims to acknowledge organizations dedicated to fostering effective workplace programs that support individuals with disabilities.

Founder and CEO Meg O'Connell expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating that the seal represents a new benchmark in recognizing progressive efforts towards disability inclusion. The program features three distinct achievement levels, which reflect varying grades of commitment, from initial engagement to advanced proficiency in disability inclusion. Importantly, this recognition is not self-reported but is evaluated through expert assessments designed to measure an organization’s effectiveness in employing individuals with disabilities while also enhancing shareholder value.

Michaels Stores and Path Robotics are the first organizations to be honored with this new certification, each demonstrating notable advancements in their disability inclusion strategies. Michaels, America’s leading arts and crafts retail chain, received the Transforming Seal, the highest distinction available. This recognition was bestowed following Michaels' dedication to integrating disability inclusion into its core strategies for over five years. Their comprehensive approach encompasses a robust recruitment process, continuous staff training, onboarding, and fostering community engagement through multiple initiatives.

In 2020, Michaels initiated the Makers Like Me program, which specifically targets potential candidates with disabilities. This program has seen exponential growth, currently spanning over 1,300 stores, eight distribution centers, as well as various corporate offices and manufacturing facilities across North America. Casey McEuin, Michaels' Head of Inclusion and Diversity, stated, "Disability inclusion at Michaels isn’t just a policy; it’s an integral part of our culture. It has led to the creation of leaders across all levels of our organization," reinforcing their genuine commitment to fostering a workplace where innovation and belonging are at the forefront.

Conversely, Path Robotics achieved recognition at the Advancing Level. Heather Carroll, the company's Chief Revenue Officer, highlighted their mission to empower people of all abilities and their focus on reinvigorating American manufacturing with physical-AI technology. Their innovative systems not only enhance productivity within the manufacturing sector but also provide valuable employment opportunities for veterans and individuals with disabilities, thus driving a movement to strengthen America's manufacturing workforce.

This inaugural awarding of seals to both Michaels and Path Robotics marks a pivotal advancement in recognizing excellence and innovation in disability inclusion initiatives. With these achievements, these organizations set a promising precedent for others, demonstrating the potential for meaningful collaboration towards a brighter future for individuals with disabilities everywhere.

About Global Disability Inclusion

Global Disability Inclusion LLC is founded on the belief that inclusivity is not merely a good business practice but a global necessity and a unique competitive edge for companies. By engaging with organizations, their team of experts strives to create avenues for accessing new talent, enhancing employee engagement, and broadening customer bases, ultimately reshaping perceptions surrounding disabilities across the globe.