Ben Trockman, Employment and Outreach Specialist, Old National Bank

Evansville Courier & Press - 9/4/2017

Sept. 04--Although Ben Trockman has accomplished a number of things during his 28 years of life, he said he still has a lot left to do.

"I love our community," he said. "I want to see it grow and prosper."

Trockman, the community outreach employment specialist at Old National Bank, works to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

When Trockman was 17 years old, he got into an accident rendering him disabled for the rest of his life.

"At the time, to be quite honest, I didn't know if I wanted to live on," he said. "It was a dark and scary time, but there's been tremendous support from my family, friends and the entire community. I saw the light to be determined and stay healthy."

Trockman said he became determined to do everything he ever wanted to do before his injury, plus even more than that.

"It's been really neat to be a part of a community that really supports someone like me," he said. "Someone who's fallen and has triumphantly gotten back up, and hopefully made some significant contributions."

Trockman said he's a proud alumnus of Harrison High School and the University of Southern Indiana, and he's recently joined the alumni council at USI.

Trockman's accomplishments center around helping others like him achieve equal opportunities. He was a catalyst in the "Inclusive Evansville Action Committee" which focuses on creating equal employment opportunities and is growing in membership.

Trockman also organized what many believed to be a first in Evansville---a job fair specifically for people with disabilities.

"For 200 years, corporations and businesses have overlooked this population of people," he said. "I know personally that there are hundreds of individuals out there with different ability challenge that are some of the most incredible people you'll ever meet."

Trockman serves on the Easter Seals Rehabilitation board, and also partners with Habitat for Humanity. Most recently, he's working on a project where he and other milennials work to build a house for those in need.

He was recognized at two Celebration of Leadership ceremonies for his contributions in the community.

"It's very humbling," Trockman said. "I don't know if I deserve such recognition, but I'm honored."

Trockman said the key to his success and resilience is keeping a positive attitude.

"Dream as big as you can, and surround yourself with people who aren't scared to dream," he said. "Every single person in this community, in this world, has a chance to make an impact. Give it a try."

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