Dutch Industries manager recognized for hiring people with intellectual disabilities

When Greg Cruson's grandfather founded Dutch Industries in 1952, he believed in lending a hand to those facing employment barriers.

Now, 64 years later, Cruson, is carrying on that approach as general manager at the family's Pilot Butte farm implement company.

Tonight, he's getting an employer of excellence award at a Saskatchewan Association of Rehabilitation Centres banquet in Regina for his role in hiring those with intellectual disabilities.

"It's a bit of a shock," Cruson said. "I didn't even know I was nominated."

Cruson said he believes very much in continuing the approach to hiring that his Dutch immigrant grandfather brought to Canada.

"Everybody we have working in the plant has some type of obstacle to their work, so there's no reason why we can't bring on people who have intellectual disabilities and find ways of accommodating them."

One of those employees is Dylan Morin, who works as a bolt finisher, packer, and cleaner at the plant.

"The people are nice, caring, at times funny," said Morin, who works three days a week at Dutch Industries.
He said it's "awesome" Cruson is getting the award and is grateful for the opportunity to show what he is capable of.

"People with intellectual disabilities can do the job," Morin said. "There's no way they can't do the job. It just takes patience."