After taking care of a variety of personal needs that created obstacles to employment, the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation recommended that Derwin try Orion's paid training program, as part of his treatment plan. Derwin had some machining experience through his high school shop classes, so he thought Orion's manufacturing training program would be a good fit.

Derwin started the training program in Clamp Block, and while he was striving to do his best, he really wasn't sure how well he was doing. After a few weeks, Derwin's mentor told him he was he was doing a good job, and with that little bit of positive reinforcement, Derwin was able to build his confidence. Derwin said, "The feedback I received from my mentor let me know that I was performing and doing well. After that, I really started to feel like I could handle myself with any task."

In addition to Clamp Block, Orion's training program provided Derwin with experience in CNC, Mills, Hydraulic Build Unit (HBU), Saws, and Conventional Machining. With each new area, Derwin focused on learning all that he could, and was surprised to find that he could learn new things. Derwin explained, "Orion gave me the confidence in myself that allowed me to work with others, and to learn new things. I discovered that it is never too late to learn something new."

Derwin's progress did not go unnoticed. He was nominated for Orion's worker of the month award, and while he didn't win, he was inspired by the nomination, and was motivated to do his best. The following month, Derwin's redoubled effort resulted in him winning the August 2017 worker of the month award.

After completing the training program Derwin took a position with Provail in Kent, in November of 2017. Derwin has worked in their Deburring department, and has cross trained in CNC Mills, Manual Mills, and Conventional Machining. He now works in the Mixed Manifold department assembling air filtration systems for airplanes. Derwin said, "The people at Provail are great! If I have any questions at all everyone is happy to help."

"I learned so much at Orion that I use every day now, like proper procedures, the right tool to use, and how to correctly do the paperwork," Derwin related, "One of the most important things I learned at Orion is to show up every day on time. Attendance is very important, and now I make sure that I show up early. I really appreciate the mentors, and all the people at Orion, for helping me get to where I am now!"