Jim Abbott was born September 19, 1967, in Flint, Michigan, without a right hand. He was an All-America hurler at Michigan, won the Sullivan Award in 1987, was the pitcher for the Gold Medal Olympic Team in 1988, and threw a 4-0 no-hitter for the New York Yankees versus Cleveland (September 4, 1993). Abbott played for ten seasons on four different teams and ended his big league playing career in 1999. Since then, he has worked with the Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) on several initiatives encouraging businesses to hire people with disabilities.
Jim Abbott may have been born with one hand, but he learned to adapt to his situation, eventually going on to his successful career as a Major League Baseball pitcher. Today, he shares his experiential knowledge of perseverance and inspiration with groups across North America. In an amazingly inspirational talk, Abbott teaches that, in order to move toward our goals, we must be willing to adapt: to change and mold ourselves in order to meet the obstacles in our own way.
Using ADAPT (Adjustability, Determination, Accountability, Perseverance, Trust) as an acronym, Abbott strings together a powerful set of words that provide a framework for audiences as they strive to reach their full potential. Audiences walk away inspired, motivated, and ready to ADAPT to any challenge that stands in their way.
In November, Abbott brought his message to SMACNA-WW contractors and their guests at the Seatac Marriott. Guests enjoyed the presentation from 3:30 to 5 pm and dinner followed. Connect with the SMACNA-WW office or watch your email for information about future membership meetings. ▪
