Where Ability Leads: Will Quist’s Career Story

For most of his early career, Will Quist felt the same frustration many people who are blind or visually impaired experience when trying to find meaningful work — roles that didn’t fit, assumptions about his abilities, and limited opportunities for growth. After earning degrees in Information Technology and Management Information Systems, he worked a wide range of jobs but struggled to find an environment where he could contribute fully without being defined by his vision loss.  

That changed in 2011, when he came across an opening at Envision’s Base Supply Center in Minot. Will applied, was hired, and immediately felt something different: expectations instead of limitations. From day one, he had the space to show what he was capable of — and that made all the difference. 

Over the past 15 years, Will’s career has been a steady climb built on trust, performance, and upward mobility. He began in Shipping and Receiving and earned three promotions, ultimately becoming Purchasing and Contracts Manager. One of the moments he’s most proud of is the confidence former GM Max Holden placed in him — opening doors, encouraging his growth, and ultimately trusting Will to carry the center forward when he retired. That belief helped shape the leader Will is today.  

As a legally blind professional and part of Envision’s mission, Will has always felt that his abilities—not his disability—are what matter. “Envision has allowed me to showcase my abilities without feeling like I was ever being held back,” he said. That support has made it possible for him to grow, advance, and help others do the same.  

Outside the BSC, Will enjoys fishing and reconnecting with old friends — simple reminders of how far he’s come and how much more he still hopes to contribute. He sees more opportunity ahead: for his own development, for the company’s growth, and for other employees following behind him. 

Meaningful employment, for Will, is about more than a job title. It’s about being trusted to lead, encouraged to grow, and given the chance to keep moving forward — all while helping others do the same.