Alex Carter: 12 Years of Leadership and Growth at the Lighthouse

At The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., employees are the heart of our mission to empower people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities through meaningful jobs, training, and services. Among the many talented individuals who bring this mission to life is Alex Carter, CNC Lead in Aerospace Manufacturing, who has dedicated more than 12 years to building his career—and inspiring others along the way.

From Production Worker to CNC Lead

Alex joined the Lighthouse in July of 2013, shortly after graduating from high school. Like many jobseekers who are blind or visually impaired, his path to employment was not easy. After a year of community college and more than a dozen interviews, he learned about the Lighthouse from a family member who worked at Boeing.

He started as a production worker and quickly moved through the ranks: CNC Machinist I, II, and III, before becoming a CNC Lead for the Aerospace division. Today, Alex manages the second shift, planning work priorities, keeping machines running, and mentoring colleagues so that the team operates smoothly and productively.

“I love what I do. Working here for 12 years—this being my first full-time job—has given me fulfillment, pride, and encouragement to keep growing on the job and as a person,” Alex shares.

In 2025 Alex was recognized for his leadership skills and manufacturing expertise, and was selected as Employee of the Year, earning him a trip to WA DC to compete nationally for recognition for a job well done.

Overcoming Barriers with Support and Training

Born with a visual disability called retinoschisis, Alex faced challenges in school and early adulthood. But at the Lighthouse, he found an environment where assistive technology and inclusive support systems enabled him to thrive.

Early in his career, Alex joined the AJAC machinist apprenticeship program, a four-year training that prepared him to become a journeyman aerospace machinist. He has also participated in American Sign Language training, computer classes, and orientation and mobility instruction, all of which enhanced both his career and independence.

“I never hesitate to say yes to opportunities. Everything I can do to learn more and make myself useful, I do,” Alex says.

Leadership in Action

As a shift lead, Alex does not just keep machines running, he builds confidence in others. He recalls a recent project when several team members were out sick, and the department had to deliver an urgent aerospace job. Alex recruited employees from other departments, coached them on new machines, and gave them the confidence to succeed.

“Seeing them complete that job and feel proud of what they accomplished was incredibly rewarding,” Alex reflects.

Alex also serves as a first responder on his shift, certified in CPR and basic medical response. His calm leadership has helped his team through unexpected situations, always ensuring safety and support.

Independence, Pride, and a Bright Future

For Alex, self-sufficiency and independence are more than workplace values – they are personal milestones. From living with family when he started at the Lighthouse to now sharing a home with friends, Alex has built the confidence and skills to live independently while pursuing hobbies like attending Mariners games, playing chess, and enjoying live music.

Reflecting on his journey, Alex says:

“My life has improved so much since I started here at 19. Now, at 31, I look forward to another 35 years of growth, opportunity, and fulfillment at the Lighthouse.”