Tell us a little about your business. – Our mission at Outlook (OutLookNe.org) is to meet blind and low-vision people where they are, to empower them in their career and personal life by providing jobs, adaptive training assistance and recreational activities for inclusiveness.
How did you get started in the business? – I went to work for Outlook when they needed someone to help add stability to the employment program and be engaged in the AbilityOne Program. It was evident from day one that the mission would resonate with my career and community goals.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – We have two primary goals: meet more people who are blind and visually impaired to serve and raise funds to support our mission. These two goals are a part of our every day. Even after 25 years, we hear too often that people don’t know everything we do and how we can help them better navigate their day or career.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – After 25 years of employment through Outlook Nebraska and adding services like adaptive training, health and wellness through Outlook Enrichment, our attention is increasingly on sustainably funding our mission. Being resourceful in deploying those programs and services to bridge gaps in funding is a constant hurdle, and our teams do a tremendous job!
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife, Shilo, and I are empty nesters. Our two daughters are married and we have two grandchildren. We love to travel and have a calendar that doesn’t have much down time. It would not surprise me if we only had five open weekends in the last year that we didn’t have plans. I think Shilo has FOMO.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Marrying early and having children. I would advocate for couples to jump into a family. Kids are the single most joyous driver to how life decisions are made. Although times can be tough at any moment, going through them with family is a blessing.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy building things. I enjoy woodworking and since I was born with only one arm, I may not be the most efficient! I have a lot of clamps to hold stuff and probably look pretty goofy doing some tasks.
Who inspires you? – My daughters have been my greatest source of inspiration since the day they were born. Watching them grow taught me that children don’t just change your schedule, they challenge you to lead with patience, purpose and love. Today, as strong women build their own families, they inspire me even more. Their resilience in facing life’s challenges and commitment to nurturing healthy relationships remind me that true success is measured in how we care for others. Seeing them thrive is a beautiful affirmation that the values we instill can ripple through generations.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Do not be afraid to put the wheels on the plane before landing,” was said to me as I was probably overthinking before taking action. I think about that often when I get locked up on a decision or action.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – My experience at Outlook Nebraska and Outlook Enrichment has driven me to value serving youth at Elkhorn Athletic Association and engaging our community’s workforce needs at Heartland Workforce Solutions.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me at (402) 614-3331 or by email at EStueckrath@OutlookNE.org.