For the third consecutive year, Alabama Industries for the Blind (AIB) was honored by National Industries for the Blind (NIB), the nation’s largest employment resource for people who are blind, with the Employment Growth Award. The award recognizes AIB’s efforts to increase employment retention, growth, and upward mobility for people who are blind.  "We are proud to provide employment opportunities for people who are blind in Alabama," said Kyle Gregg, Executive Director, AIB. "Our employees are talented and dedicated professionals, and we are delighted that they are being recognized as an example of the capabilities of people who are blind."

Employment Growth Award recipients receive a cash payment from a fund created to recognize and encourage NIB associated nonprofit agencies that grow or sustain employment for people who are blind. Emphasis is also placed on efforts to increase upward mobility in the workplace and job placements. “Alabama Industries for the Blind is doing an outstanding job of creating rewarding career opportunities for people who are blind,” said NIB President and CEO Kevin Lynch. “This is a great example of the unlimited capabilities of people who are blind working in Alabama and across the country.” 

“Seventy five percent of our manufacturing work force is blind or legally blind,” said Gregg. “While the majority of our work is generated by government contracts such as JLST bags and all of the neckties worn by the U.S. military, we emphasize diversity in our business and generating new business in the private sector. These efforts are extremely important to our future and the continued growth of employment opportunities for individuals who are blind.”

Founded in 1932, AIB employs 280 people; operating manufacturing facilities in Talladega and Birmingham and four supply stores on military bases in Alabama and Georgia. AIB provides employment and training opportunities for adults who are blind, deaf and deafblind. AIB not only builds strong, dependable products; they build a strong community of people whose possibilities are limitless.