Veteran, Trainer, and Safety Leader: Matthew Payne Recognized as SourceAmerica Impact Award Finalist

Eight Years of Service and Leadership

For eight years, Matthew Payne has played a vital role in supporting TRDI’s operations at Fort Hood, combining technical expertise, military experience, and a commitment to helping others succeed. Those qualities recently earned him recognition as a finalist for a prestigious SourceAmerica Impact Award.

Training Others for Success

As a TAS Mechanic and Master Trainer, Payne provides monthly training on equipment, procedures, and safety standards, helping employees meet Performance Work Statement requirements and maintain consistent, high-quality service for the customer.

A Commitment to Safety

His dedication to workplace safety has also made a lasting impact. After reporting a tire detachment from a UAV during takeoff and identifying hazardous runway conditions during winter weather, Payne helped prevent potential injuries and operational disruptions, earning a DAO Safety Award for his vigilance.

“Matthew is a wonderful worker who is always ready to help and always ready to learn.”

– Patrick Moore, Project Manager

From Army Service to Civilian Excellence

A U.S. Army veteran who served six years as a UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter Repairer, Payne brings the discipline, precision, and safety-first mindset developed during military service to every aspect of his work.

Always Learning, Always Growing

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he continues to pursue personal growth, recently earning his Private Pilot’s License.

Making a Lasting Impact

Through his leadership, technical knowledge, and commitment to serving others, Payne exemplifies the values that make veterans such an asset to the workplace and community. His selection as a finalist is a well-deserved recognition of his lasting contributions to TRDI, his coworkers, and the Fort Hood mission.

About SourceAmerica

SourceAmerica is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Through its nationwide network of nonprofit partners, including TRDI, SourceAmerica connects a talented workforce with meaningful jobs while helping businesses and government agencies meet their service needs.

Selected as a self-advocate, Simon shared how the AbilityOne Program has helped him build independence, confidence, and valuable workplace skills during his 16 years with TRDI. He credits his job with providing purpose, opportunity, and personal growth.

Sixteen Years of Growth, Confidence and Independence

At the conference, Simon met with Texas congressional offices to advocate for continued employment opportunities for people with disabilities. He emphasized that AbilityOne does more than provide jobs. It helps individuals develop skills, achieve greater independence, and build meaningful careers.

“The AbilityOne Program made a difference in my life. It gave me purpose and opportunities I would not have had.”

– Simon Hernandez

Protecting Opportunities for Future Generations

Simon also spoke about the importance of protecting the federal programs that support disability employment so future generations can have the same opportunities he received.

TRDI congratulates Simon for proudly representing the organization, the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station, and the disability community.

Meaningful Employment Changes Lives

His story highlights the life-changing impact of meaningful employment and the importance of ensuring those opportunities remain available for others.