The Power of Purpose Behind Every Uniform

The Power of Purpose Behind Every Uniform At Human Technologies, work is more than a paycheck—it is a path to pride, independence, and community. That message was at the heart of our recent interview on Talk of the Town Utica, where we shared how our Screen Print and Embroidery services in Utica NY and Uniform Management Services are creating real impact for people of all abilities. From custom t-shirts to federal uniforms, we are a mission driven organization with decades of experience. Our embroidery and screen printing roots go back to the late 1970s, starting with local contracts and growing into long term partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Forest Service and Customs and Border Protection. Every item produced at our Utica facility represents more than just quality—it reflects the capabilities and contributions of a diverse workforce. https://youtu.be/WiOAaR24yn0 Our Uniform Management Services go far beyond shipping garments. We manage secure online portals, product sourcing, inventory planning, allowance tracking, returns, and full customization for agencies across the country. While the logistics are complex, our purpose is simple: create and sustain jobs for people with differing abilities through quality work. It is not just about what we make—it is about who makes it and why. We are proud to compete on the strength of our service and the dedication of our people, many of whom have overcome barriers to employment. Their commitment to excellence fuels every stitch, print, and shipment. We are grateful to Talk of the Town for helping us share this story and highlight The Power of People with Purpose.

Engineering a Better Future Together with MVCC

Engineering a Better Future Together with MVCC At Human Technologies, we believe in The Power of People with Purpose, and that includes the next generation of engineers. For nearly 15 years, we have proudly partnered with Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC), giving students the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real world settings and make a tangible impact on our operations. This semester, 18 first-year Mechanical Engineering students from MVCC’s Engineering Science course joined us weekly over a 6 to 8 week period to work on a range of projects focused on improving efficiency, safety, and the overall employee experience. Their presentations, delivered yesterday to an audience that included members of our Executive Team, covered everything from streamlining workflow processes and evaluating ergonomic risks to exploring how enhanced communication and socialization contribute to workplace satisfaction. One group even engineered aftermarket machine attachments to address production flaws, while another reimagined the layout and flow of our employee parking lot to maximize space and improve safety. These fresh perspectives continue to benefit our operations. In fact, many past recommendations from MVCC students have directly influenced process improvements throughout our facilities. One former student reflected, “I was unsure about my engineering degree until I came to HT and put my learning into practice. It showed me I was on the right path.” Thank you to MVCC, Professor Jeff Birt, and this semester’s impressive group of students. We are grateful for another successful collaboration and excited to keep learning and innovating together.

More Than a Job: How Purposeful Employment Transformed Anthony’s Life

More Than a Job: How Purposeful Employment Transformed Anthony’s Life At Human Technologies, we believe employment is more than a paycheck. It is a path to purpose, growth, and belonging. No one exemplifies this more than Anthony Rodeo, a dedicated Custodian who has found so much more than just a job within our walls. From the moment Anthony joined our team, his work ethic and commitment were clear. “I do a lot of things in this building,” he says with pride. He handles everything from cleaning floors to managing waste removal, always showing up with focus and a strong sense of responsibility. But to him, being a cleaner is not just about cleanliness—it is about making a difference. “You are just not a cleaner,” he says. “You change people’s lives.” https://vimeo.com/1075700877?share=copy Anthony came to Human Technologies after a difficult time in his life, including the loss of his brother. With the help of Lyn Geigel, a job coach from the Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL), he overcame self-doubt and fear of the unknown. “I thought I would never make my 90 days,” he admits. But with Lyn’s encouragement and the support of our team, he pushed through—and thrived. Learning new systems, especially digital tools like electronic timekeeping, did not come easy. “It took me three years to get it right,” Anthony shares. But his persistence paid off, and today he completes his tasks confidently and independently. “Now I just go ahead and do my part.” His story is a testament to what is possible when people are given the right tools, the right support, and the right environment. “It is not about the disability,” says Lyn. “It is about the ability.” That belief has guided Anthony’s journey—and it is one we carry across our entire organization.

Redefining Disability Through Employment

Redefining Disability Through Employment In this powerful interview, Human Technologies President & CEO Carl Reistrom joins Vice President of HR, Lisa Green, and HR Manager, Steve Hartz to unpack what “disability” really means and how employment can empower. The discussion covers stigma, accommodations, and the transformative effect of inclusive workplaces. At Human Technologies, we focus on ability, not disability—and this conversation is a meaningful reminder of why that matters. https://youtu.be/2VjrYCLS-_Y?si=PJzxfb7hxcW80GzG

Keeping Mission-Critical Facilities Running: The Growth of Human Technologies’ FMS

In a recent conversation, we sat down with Carl Edwards, the Regional Facilities Manager for New York at Human Technologies. The discussion provided an in-depth look at the company’s Facilities Management Services (FMS) and highlighted Carl’s extensive background in project management and maintenance. Carl Edwards: An expertise in Facilities Management. Carl Edwards has been with Human Technologies since May 2023, serving as a Regional Facilities Manager. In this role, he has overseen multiple New York State sites, bringing extensive knowledge of each facility’s unique needs. Before joining Human Technologies, Carl built over a decade of hands-onexperience in senior maintenance, facilities, and operations management within nuclear and hospital environments. His multi-site responsibilities included planning and executing daily maintenance functions, as well as designing, planning, and approving systems for boilers, HVAC, water, electrical, and fire safety. Carl holds OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 certifications and is Master Rigger Certified. Since joining Human Technologies, he has further expanded his expertise by completing courses in EM385 and PerimeterProtection, reinforcing his commitment to safety and operational excellence. Understanding Facilities Management Services at Human Technologies Human Technologies’ Facilities Management Services (FMS) began in 2008 with a contract at a Navy Reserve Center in Schenectady, New York, and has since expanded into a comprehensive operation serving federal and commercial customers. Our team delivers full-scale maintenance, including HVAC upkeep, groundskeeping, janitorial services, snow removal, waste management, and recycling. Beyond routine tasks, we handle critical repairs such as installing rooftop exhaust ventilators, upgrading water heaters and fountains, replacing circulating pumps, repairing security gates and turnstiles, and installing emergency lighting. We also conduct advanced preventive maintenance, from testing building grounding for lightning protection to ensuring HVAC systems operate reliably. Whether addressing immediate repairs or implementing long-term facility solutions, FMS is committed to keeping mission-critical buildings safe, functional, and operational. Serving Our Customers Human Technologies proudly provides Facilities Management Services to key federal customers, including the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC), Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES), Defense Logistics Agency, the GSA Federal Courthouse Complex in Erie, PA, and the Army Reserve Center in Coraopolis, PA. These partnerships showcase our ability to uphold high operational standards in military facility maintenance and government property management. Our work ensures mission-critical buildings remain fully operational and well-maintained to support their essential functions. Growth and Employment Opportunities Starting with just two part-time employees, the Facilities Management Services division has grown to a robust team of 43. This expansion reflects Human Technologies’ commitment to creating employment opportunities and delivering high-quality facilities maintenance. The company emphasizes internal growth, offering employees avenues for advancement through facility management training and development programs. A Commitment to Excellence The success of Human Technologies’ Facilities Management Services is rooted in its dedication to facility operations excellence and customer satisfaction. By reducing reliance on subcontractors and investing in employee training, the company ensures consistent service delivery. This approach has led to the acquisition of additional contracts, including facility maintenance contracts in Pennsylvania and Delaware, further extending the company’s reach and impact. Human Technologies’ Facilities Management Services exemplify the organization’s mission to provide exceptional facility maintenance while fostering employment opportunities. With industry experts like Carl Edwards leading the way, the future of facility management solutions looks promising, marked by growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Learn More About HT’s Facilities Management Services

Advancing Opportunity and Excellence Through New Partnerships

At Human Technologies, our mission centers on creating meaningful employment opportunities and improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our latest partnership with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) exemplifies this commitment. This groundbreaking collaboration involves providing custom-embroidered uniforms for corrections officers, a contract that reflects our organization’s adaptability, ingenuity, and dedication to excellence. A Bold Step Forward Under the leadership of Dan Kupiec, Director of Supply Chain Services, Human Technologies secured a significant new contract to supply DOCCS with Class B uniforms. These include blue shirts, trousers, and turtlenecks for both male and female officers. Each piece will undergo customization, featuring embroidered insignias, chevrons, and patches to meet DOCCS’s needs. This shift to embroidered elements, which replaces traditional metal pins, underscores a thoughtful approach to safety and efficiency for corrections officers. This partnership will engage every department within Human Technologies, from customer service and order fulfillment to our skilled embroidery and sewing teams. Beyond the immediate workload, this project has enabled us to invest in new equipment, boosting our efficiency and capacity for future endeavors. Enhancing Collaboration Our relationship with DOCCS is built on a foundation of trust and demonstrated excellence. Human Technologies has previously provided various products for DOCCS, and our consistent performance has positioned us as a preferred provider. Through the collaboration with NYSID (New York State Industries for the Disabled), we continue to advance our shared mission of creating and supporting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Expanding Our Reach Human Technologies’ impact extends beyond uniforms for DOCCS. Our organization provides apparel for New York State Troopers, Department of Transportation workers, and other state agencies, while also supplying boots for incarcerated individuals. Additionally, our environmental services team ensures the maintenance of critical state facilities, including Oneida County buildings and the Southern Tier Welcome Center. These diverse contracts highlight our ability to adapt to various needs while maintaining exceptional quality. Mission in Motion This new contract is a testament to the dedication and skill of every team member at Human Technologies. From the precision of our embroidery specialists to the efficiency of our logistics teams, the collective effort ensures the success of projects that carry significant economic and social impact. It’s this commitment to excellence that keeps partnerships thriving and allows us to fulfill our mission of enhancing lives through purposeful work. Looking Ahead Human Technologies’ collaboration with DOCCS is more than a business success—it’s a reflection of our core values. By delivering high-quality products and services, we not only meet the needs of our partners but also create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This is the power of purpose-driven work, and it is the foundation of everything we do.

Driving Innovation and Opportunities with Logistics and Manufacturing

At Human Technologies, we pride ourselves on creating meaningful employment opportunities and fostering innovative solutions that align with our mission. Recently, Sasha Congdon, Manager of Logistics and Manufacturing, shared her journey with Human Technologies and an exciting new project that showcases the organization and dedication to excellence. A Journey of Growth and Leadership Sasha Congdon began her career with Human Technologies in 2016 as an Order Fulfillment Supervisor, managing various programs such as the Department of Corrections Boots program and uniform programs for the Department of State Military. Her leadership and dedication were instrumental in ensuring the success of these initiatives, and her recent promotion to Manager of Logistics and Manufacturing is a testament to her contributions.    In her new role, Sasha oversees a wide range of operations, including the Screen Print and Embroidery department, packaging and assembly, and value-added services for uniform programs. From working with New York State Police uniforms to collaborating with local organizations, Sasha’s expertise ensures that Human Technologies continues to deliver high-quality products and services. A Spotlight on Danfoss: A New Project One of the most exciting developments under Sasha’s leadership is a new project with Danfoss Silicon Power, a company based in Marcy, New York. Human Technologies is now responsible for cleaning, vacuuming, and inspecting reusable trays used to house and ship power modules. This meticulous process ensures that the trays are entirely free of dust, debris, and static, using specialized equipment and materials such as static-free tape and alcohol wipes. Currently handling 400 trays per week, the project is expected to grow significantly, doubling the volume to 800 trays weekly. This partnership not only supports Danfoss’s mission of engineering solutions for a sustainable future but also reinforces Human Technologies’ role in providing critical support for innovative industries. A Growing Partnership Human Technologies’ relationship with Danfoss dates back to 2019, involving projects like assembling boxes and inlays for safe shipping of components. The collaboration has flourished due to shared values and mutual commitment to quality and sustainability. Sasha emphasizes the alignment between Danfoss’s mission and Human Technologies’ dedication to creating opportunities and delivering exceptional service. A Company That Makes a Difference When asked about what sets Human Technologies apart, Sasha highlighted the organization’s unique ability to create meaningful opportunities for individuals who might not otherwise have access to them. The work performed at Human Technologies is not just important but impactful, supporting critical operations such as military equipment inspections and global logistics. The distribution center, where much of this work takes place, is a hub of activity and innovation. Employees take pride in their roles, knowing that their efforts contribute to supporting military personnel and advancing critical industries. Looking Ahead As Human Technologies continues to expand its logistics and manufacturing capabilities, the future looks bright. Sasha’s leadership and the dedication of the entire team ensure that the organization will remain a trusted partner for companies like Danfoss and a leader in creating meaningful work opportunities. Whether it’s assembling uniforms, inspecting trays, or supporting local organizations, Human Technologies exemplifies excellence and purpose-driven work. With projects like the Danfoss partnership, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation, opportunity, and community impact. We look forward to hearing more from Sasha and the Logistics and Manufacturing team as they drive growth and success at Human Technologies.

Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Environmental Services

At Human Technologies, we take immense pride in the exceptional work performed by our Environmental Services team. Their dedication to maintaining clean, safe, and beautiful spaces reflects our mission to create meaningful opportunities and make a tangible difference in our communities. In honor of National Custodians Day, we sat down with Frank Castellano, Director of Environmental Services, to discuss his journey, the team’s work, and their pivotal role in our organization’s success. From the Ground Up: Frank Castellano’s Journey Frank Castellano joined Human Technologies on Halloween 2010, starting as a project supervisor ona mobile run. Over the years, he held various roles, including area supervisor, regional manager, and eventually director. Frank’s progression through multiple positions gave him firsthand experience with every aspect of environmental services, from managing contracts to supervising large-scale operations like of the New York State Fair. His comprehensive knowledge ensures that he leads with empathy and expertise. Environmental Services at a Glance Human Technologies’ Environmental Services team is a cornerstone of our operations, providing cleaning and maintenance services with a focus on excellence and attention to detail. With approximately 200 employees, the team handles a wide range of tasks, including: General janitorial services Floor care, including strip and wax services Carpet extraction and cleaning Window cleaning High-touch cleaning and disinfection, especially during critical times such as the COVID-19 pandemic Special projects tailored to client needs This team’s adaptability and dedication ensure that every space they maintain is clean, safe, and welcoming. Commitment to Green Cleaning Environmental sustainability is a priority for Human Technologies. The team utilizes green cleaning solutions wherever possible, including eco-friendly chemicals, low-decibel machinery, and water conservation methods. However, Frank emphasizes that successful green cleaning requires collaboration with clients to reduce dirt entry and ensure effective filtration systems. Together, these efforts contribute to healthier, more sustainable spaces.  A Message to the Heroes of Environmental Services Frank Castellano’s appreciation for his team was heartfelt: “Words are hard to explain how important our workers are and the role they play. I want to thank everyone for their outstanding performance, especially during the pandemic. From cleaners to managers and supervisors, your dedication ensures we meet the highest standards every day. Thank you.” Recognizing Excellence in Everyday Spaces When you walk into a spotless building, from the courthouse to the train station, it’s the result of hard work by dedicated professionals. These individuals ensure not only cleanliness but also safety for all who enter. As Nate Linck eloquently put it, “Not all heroes wear capes.” The Environmental Services team are heroes who deserve recognition for their vital contributions. Looking Ahead As Human Technologies’ Environmental Services division continues to grow, we anticipate more opportunities to share stories of the hardworking individuals who make it all possible. From Frank Castellano’s leadership to the efforts of area managers and on-site staff, their commitment ensures that our spaces remain pristine, safe, and welcoming. To our Environmental Services team: thank you for your tireless dedication. You are the heart of what makes Human Technologies a trusted partner across New York State. Learn More About HT’s Environmental Services