Renée Ward is a Transition Facilitator with the Transition to Work team at Inclusion NB. In the small town of Florenceville-Bristol, Renee has been working with Wicked Good Graphics on their inclusive hiring practices. Wicked Good Graphics is a New Brunswick–based custom decoration studio specializing in screen printing, embroidery, heat press, and promotional products. Here is what Renee had to say:
“Working with Susan and Geneva at Wicked Good Graphics has been seamless right from the very first meeting. When the Transition to Work Program was introduced, they immediately saw the value and agreed to host a student through the local Co-operative Education course. From day one, their team created a welcoming environment that fostered learning, creativity, and growth.”
The transition for the high school student, with the oversight support of Inclusion NB, in and out of the placement was smooth, with Wicked Good Graphics even adjusting to the student’s class schedule and bus times. Susan and her team embraced the idea that learning includes both successes and mistakes. They encouraged skill development while sharing their own stories of early missteps, showing the student that mistakes are simply part of the learning process.
From the beginning, Susan agreed without hesitation to host a student and committed to offering training at a pace that worked for the individual. The student was treated with respect and welcomed into the team. They participated in staff meetings, work celebrations, and everyday conversations—whether it was about favourite recipes or personal hobbies—helping to sharpen social skills and create real connections. The diverse ages and personalities within the Wicked Good Graphics team provided even more opportunities for learning and identifying with different work styles.
For Susan, becoming an inclusive employer was an easy decision: “I said yes the moment I was asked.”
The impact of the placement has been powerful. The student has become a valued team member whose growth has been rewarding to watch. He showed a willingness to learn and step outside of his comfort zone. His positivity, humour, and daily check-ins lifted the workplace culture, keeping everyone laughing and connected. Customers also noticed the positive energy, and the entire team agreed he fit in naturally from the start.
When asked what she would say to other employers considering inclusive hiring, Susan’s advice was simple: “Do it! Don’t overthink it, just do it. The rewards far outweigh any concerns you may have.”
Wicked Good Graphics demonstrates every day that inclusion strengthens workplaces. By seeing the value in people—as individuals and as a team—they not only serve their customers with care but also create an environment where everyone can belong, grow, and thrive.
To learn more about the Transition to Work program, visit: https://www.inclusionnb.ca/employment/
*The student featured in this story has chosen to remain anonymous*
