Jake Austen, who is autistic, joined ACE Popcorn last year as a Production Assistant to help make delicious popcorn.
The Marketing Team spoke to Jake about his journey and how working for ACE Popcorn has had a massive impact on him.
Hi Jake! To start with, just tell us a bit about yourself?
“I am Jake, I am a Production Assistant at ACE Popcorn. My hobbies are gaming, music, and getting outside.”
How would you describe ACE Popcorn?
“ACE Popcorn is a brilliant enterprise for autistic individuals within the East Midlands. ACE Popcorn wants to help find independence in individuals and support in seeking experience”
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Describe what a day looks like for a Production Assistant at ACE Popcorn?
“Our Manager, Tristan will brief us on what we will do that day and then before we make the popcorn, we will do the essential health and safety checks, such as putting the PPE on and making sure the machines are thoroughly cleaned. We will make the popcorn Tristan asks for, such as Sweet, salted or Caramel, and then we will package them and keep doing that process”
What have you enjoyed while working with ACE Popcorn?
“I got to make a lot of new friends. My work colleagues, Aaran and Steven are amazing.”
Tell us the journey you went on when applying for the role?
“I went on the Computer with Jay Ingram, who was a Transition Support Worker and he helped me out in applying for this role and helped me prepare for the interview, so I am really happy that I had Jay during the process to support me.”
How was your role changed your view on autism?
“It changed absolutely everything about me. I used to get up at around lunchtime and now because I’m working, I’m getting into a routine of waking up early and I’m enjoying every second of it.”
How has Autism East Midlands supported you in your role?
“It’s been brilliant, before I was here, I was a service user in one of the services that Autism East Midlands provides to autistic individuals. The service helped me out in finding a job. It was tough at times, but I wouldn’t be where I am without the help and support of the service.”
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If you’d like to learn more about ACE Popcorn, you can:
Visit our About ACE Popcorn page.
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Email us at enquiries@aem.org.uk.
