Hiring an individual with special needs can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. For Bryan Crews, owner of Stayton Ace Hardware, his employee Nick has become an indispensable member of the team with a real knack for assembling products.

Around Stayton Ace Hardware, in Stayton, Oregon, Nick is known as the "Wheelbarrow CEO." The team relies on him to assemble wheelbarrows, grills, and other large items. Nick has assembled over 3000 wheelbarrows in his time at Ace. He has some special needs, but that has not stopped him from being the best at his job.

"Nick has some learning disabilities," said Carol, Nick’s Mom. "He can’t read, and everything he knows is what he has seen on TV or what people have said to him… and he remembers it!"

"I would say Nick’s special skill is his attention to detail," said Chad Martin, General Manager of Santiam Canyon Family Ace Hardware Stores. "He can take a thick instruction book and go through it piece by piece and make it happen."

Nick’s memory comes in handy around Ace. Customers come into the store who need a part for a wheelbarrow. Nick can identify the part just by looking at it, and he can grab the spare part they need and get them on their way quickly.

"Ace brings out the best in people. The owners and managers instill confidence. They got to know Nick and his capabilities, and they worked with him," said Gene, Nick’s Dad.

"If an applicant came in that has special needs in any way, I would suggest giving them a try. Don’t assume that they can’t," said Bryan. "It’s easier to assume somebody can and monitor them and help them. Nick has never let us down in that regard."