Bullen Ultrasonics Supports Youth with Disabilities through Strategic Partnership

Advancing Independence: Bullen Ultrasonics' Partnership with Project LIFE

Bullen Ultrasonics, a prominent player in precision machining, is taking significant steps to support workforce readiness for young adults with disabilities through its collaboration with Preble County Educational Service Center's Project LIFE. This initiative aims to prepare these individuals for post-education employment while fostering essential independence skills.

Based in Eaton, Ohio, Bullen Ultrasonics excels in the machining of advanced materials using cutting-edge ultrasonic and laser technologies. The partnership began in the fall of 2024, focusing on providing interns from Project LIFE, which is a transition program designed to empower young adults with disabilities. The Project LIFE model, initially developed by Butler Tech, combines classroom instruction with practical work experiences to equip students with vital employability skills and increase their confidence.

As part of the partnership, interns from Project LIFE engage in various tasks within Bullen's manufacturing environment. These tasks range from cleaning and organizing to supporting day-to-day operations, allowing the interns to gain real-life experience in workplace settings. This work exposure is pivotal in helping them practice communication and teamwork skills, as well as fostering professionalism, self-advocacy, and the ability to respond to constructive criticism.

Laura White, an instructor at Project LIFE, emphasizes the importance of such partnerships, stating, “Our interns are not just here to complete tasks; they’re learning to advocate for themselves and build their confidence through everyday work experiences.” The program is designed to help young adults transition smoothly into independent living and community involvement.

Currently, Project LIFE serves 11 interns, reflecting its growth from just eight interns in its inaugural year. Each participant, aged between 18 and 21, has met local graduation requirements and has chosen to defer their diplomas to focus on skill development. Throughout their time in Project LIFE, they balance classroom education on practical adult-life skills with authentic work experiences like those at Bullen Ultrasonics.

“Interns at Bullen are learning the importance of workplace standards while being supported to develop critical soft skills,” says Ronnie Bailey, Bullen’s Manager of People Systems. This real-world experience highlights the interns' value to the company, transforming them from perceived visitors to integral team members. Employees also report missing the interns when their rotation ends, showcasing the bond that develops during their time at Bullen.

Project LIFE interns also create their own small business, ‘Paws for a Purpose,’ where they produce pet products, including dog treats. Such diverse experiences allow interns to explore their strengths and interests further.

The success of Project LIFE is evident from its outcomes. Reports indicate a remarkable 96% growth in year-one assessments, and a full 100% in subsequent years. Graduates of the program are not only progressing in academics but are also successfully finding jobs, with many landing positions in local businesses.

Bullen Ultrasonics is dedicated to continuing its support for this meaningful initiative, planning to participate in Project LIFE's open house event and connect further with the community. During the event, local businesses will display their contributions while interns share their experiences, reinforcing the program’s impact.

“As we see former interns working in their community, we realize the true value of the experience they gained at Bullen,” Bailey notes with pride. The partnership is not only beneficial for the interns but also enriches Bullen’s workforce, fostering diversity and community involvement.

To view a video showcasing the positive impact of Project LIFE on interns and their families, visit here. To learn more about Bullen Ultrasonics and its services, visit their website at Bullen Tech.

Project LIFE is an initiative worth exploring for communities looking to empower young adults with disabilities, ensuring no one falls through the cracks and that every individual has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment.