Cortez Simms has built an inspiring career with Global Connections to Employment (GCE)—an affiliate of LifeView group—serving today as the custodial supervisor at the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) in Gulfport, Mississippi. His journey is a testament to perseverance, hard work and the belief that disability does not define ability.

Cortez first came to GCE over thirteen years ago. Over time, he discovered a sense of purpose in the work and a deep commitment to his team. He worked his way up from an entry-level custodial position to his current leadership role, supervisor.

“I love being a leader and teaching,” Cortez shares. “I like passing along what I know so my team members can grow, set goals and achieve them.”

Part of what makes GCE meaningful to Cortez is its mission to support individuals with disabilities. “I like GCE because they are willing to work with people with disabilities,” he says. “This is what they do—they give you a chance, they’ll accommodate you, help you be a better person and teach you how to work.”

Throughout his career, Cortez has consistently led by example. It wasn’t unusual to find him standing behind a toilet scrubbing or mopping a floor alongside his coworkers. He worked every shift at one time or another, learning every aspect of custodial care.

Cortez credits GCE with helping him grow as both a professional and a person. “Since coming to GCE, I’ve learned to be a better leader, to have patience and to communicate more effectively with my team,” he says.

“The most rewarding part of my job is watching my team members succeed and knowing I had a part in helping them get there.”

His managers and peers echo that sentiment. “There isn’t a task Cortez can’t perform or a skill he isn’t willing to learn,” says Susie Baumnk, his supervisor. “We’ve had team members come in unsure of themselves or their abilities, and Cortez takes them under his wing, showing them that with willingness, they can succeed. It is an honor to have a team member like Cortez working for us here at AFRH Gulfport. He is well-liked by many.”

For Cortez, being a supervisor is about more than responsibility; it’s about setting an example and lifting others up. He takes pride in creating an environment where every team member feels capable, supported and part of a mission greater than themselves.

“This is the longest job I’ve had in my entire life,” Cortez reflects. “That says a lot about how much I love what I do and the people I get to work with.”

To work with compassionate team members like Cortez, visit our Careers site.