Sandy Wilkinson’s Story Continues: 13 Years of Employment, Independence and Support at Envision

Sandy Wilkinson came to Envision after facing barriers to employment because she was blind. She had the skills and determination to work, but finding the right opportunity was difficult. At Envision, Sandy found a place where she could contribute, build skills, and grow over time. She started in Manufacturing as a Picker and moved into machine operation. Later, she transitioned to Envision’s Contact Center, where she took on customer service work and continued developing professionally. Today, Sandy contributes to Envision’s second-shift manufacturing team. 

As Sandy marks 13 years with Envision, her career reflects a key part of Envision’s work: creating access to meaningful employment for people who are blind or low vision (BVI), while supporting employees as their skills, needs and life circumstances change. 

In June 2025, Sandy traveled to Columbus, Ohio, to attend guide dog training at Pilot Dogs and receive Darwin, her third guide dog. Envision’s guide dog training benefit covered two of the three weeks of training. That allowed Sandy to preserve paid time off and concentrate on learning, bonding and building trust with Darwin. 

“For those who have never worked with a guide dog, it’s hard to explain the freedom, confidence and independence they provide,” Sandy shared. 

As a third-time graduate of Pilot Dogs, Sandy understood the training process, but every guide dog partnership requires time, trust and adjustment. Darwin became an important part of her independence at work and in daily life. 

Soon after returning home, Sandy was involved in an automobile accident on her way to work. Her injuries and medical restrictions kept her away from work for several months. During that time, Envision’s HR team helped her navigate leave and benefits, and her manager, Andy Hoffman, checked in regularly. 

“Knowing that people cared about my recovery meant more than they probably realized,” Sandy shared. 

As Sandy prepared to return to work, her brother Zachary, for whom she served as guardian, became seriously ill. When Sandy received the call that he was being life-flighted to Pittsburgh, she booked a one-way flight to be with him. 

Throughout that time, Sandy stayed in contact with Envision and kept her supervisor updated. Envision helped Sandy navigate leave so she could focus on her family. That time with Zachary became something Sandy says she will never forget. 

Zachary later passed away. Sandy said Envision’s support during that time, including a floral arrangement sent to his services, meant a great deal to her and her family. 

Sandy also heard from employees outside her immediate team. For her, that outreach mattered because it showed how support at Envision can come from across the organization. 

When Sandy was ready to return to work, her path had changed. Envision identified a Manufacturing role that considered the limitations she still had from her injuries. She also moved to second shift after years of working first shift. 

Sandy said her supervisor, Rich, helped her adjust to the new role and schedule with patience, support and encouragement. 

During that period, Sandy also received support through Envision’s Inspiration Fund, which provides financial assistance to eligible employees facing unexpected hardship. For Sandy, the assistance helped reduce pressure during a difficult time. 

That chapter gave Sandy a clear example of how employment support can extend beyond the hiring process. For her, it included leave guidance, manager communication, guide dog training support, financial assistance, role placement and coworkers who stayed connected. 

“People often talk about loyalty in terms of how long an employee stays with a company,” Sandy shared. “Over the past year, I learned that loyalty can go both ways.” 

Sandy’s story demonstrates how Envision enables employment access and long-term support. Employment is the starting point. Long-term opportunity also requires flexibility, practical resources and a workplace where BVI employees can continue contributing as life changes. 

As Sandy reflects on 13 years with Envision, she says she is grateful for Darwin, for the time she had with Zachary and for the people who supported her through a difficult chapter.  

Interested in working at Envision? Explore current career opportunities here.