AIKEN, S.C. – Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC), the Savannah River Site liquid waste contractor, hired another student worker from the University of South Aiken’s (USCA) LIFE Program.
USCA LIFE is a two-year program that serves students with intellectual disabilities by providing individual support and services, focusing on academic and social inclusion, providing access and skills for gainful employment, integrating person-centered planning and offering a meaningful credential.
SRMC partnered with USCA LIFE earlier this year after hiring the first student worker from the program at SRMC’s Aiken Office, along with giving a $20,000 donation to the program, according to a press release from SRS.
Now, SRMC is hiring second-year student Brayden Thompson, who will also work in the SRMC Aiken Office on a part-time basis in facility management, helping to set up events and working with the facility administrator.
SRMC Prime Contract Management Director Kathy Vaselopulos said supporting the program has proven to be beneficial to all three parties: USCA LIFE, the student worker and SRMC.
“SRMC is pleased to collaborate with the university again and support this important program that prioritizes students with intellectual disabilities,” Vaselopulos said. “We are honored to provide the students with a real-world work experience to help them develop the skills and connections that can be used in gaining meaningful careers.”
USCA LIFE Program Director Melissa Martin said that students complete both USCA courses and courses specific to the LIFE program.
“LIFE students are USCA students first and foremost,” Martin said. “We offer LIFE students access to social events, clubs, Greek life, and all the offerings enjoyed by our student population. The USCA LIFE staff helps them complete job applications and prepares them for a full, independent life.”
