Phenix Technology, a Riverside-based manufacturer of firefighter safety helmets for over 50 years, received the 2025 W.O. Lawton Business Leadership Award from the National Association of Workforce Boards last week. The family-owned company earned the recognition for its "Opportunity for All" program that has transformed lives while creating a more inclusive workplace.
The award comes as one of the program's first participants celebrated his third work anniversary with the company Monday.
"While we take tremendous pride in the products we make, we also believe we have a mission to create a better world through developing opportunities," said Angel Sanchez, CEO of Phenix Technology. "Opportunity for All has helped prove that individuals who have historically been excluded from the workforce don't just contribute — they elevate organizations."
Sanchez said the initiative grew from personal experience with his aunt who had Down syndrome and his early career hiring a woman with Down syndrome at a pizza place, where he saw how she transformed the workplace culture.
More than 30% of Phenix's workforce is neurodiverse or comes from traditionally underserved backgrounds, the company reported. What began with hiring a single employee has expanded to include internships and partnerships with local schools.
One early hire through the program couldn't communicate with coworkers when he started, wearing dark sunglasses and headphones to avoid interaction. Within two months, he had transformed, removing his barriers to interaction, and has since graduated school, obtained a driver's license, started a side business, and now lives independently.
Another employee, Patrick, came to Phenix through a state-funded work experience program. Despite struggling with productivity initially, his positive attitude proved invaluable.
"He was so joyful that it was increasing the morale of the company," Sanchez said. "We hired him as our chief JOY officer." Patrick now assists with training and recently celebrated his third anniversary with the company.
For Sanchez, success extends beyond employment numbers. "We look at social mobility – can they achieve full-wage employment, live independently, get their driver's license?" The company's 11-week training cohorts have achieved a 100% graduation rate with 80% of participants finding employment at other companies.
Stephanie Adams, Deputy Director of Housing and Workforce Solutions-Workforce for Riverside County, said Phenix's neurodiversity rate stands out.
"Although I do not have specific data for other Riverside County employers, 30% is notably high," Adams said. "What makes Phenix's approach effective is they see neurodiverse employees as a strong investment. Their employees are motivated, eager to learn and have near perfect attendance records."
Adams said the economic benefits extend beyond the company. "Anytime someone is transferred from support programs to employment, it leads to increased tax revenues and reduces reliance on public assistance, while helping businesses grow."
"We are honored to receive this award and grateful to the partners who have helped make this vision a reality," Sanchez said.
Tammy Johnson, president of the Riverside County Manufacturers and Exporters Association, said Phenix's recognition could inspire other local companies.
"We're seeing growing interest from our members in developing more inclusive workplaces," Johnson said. "Having a Riverside company receive this national recognition shows what's possible right here in our community."
