Clifford Salmond: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal
Clifford Salmond is one of the first participants to go through Project IOWA’s programming. He graduated in February 2013, and has had many successes along the way.
Clifford, a veteran of the criminal justice system who was incarcerated on drug-related charges. After his release, he faced significant challenges finding stable, meaningful employment.
“I was working as a dishwasher at a restaurant called Baby Boomers, about two years into my recovery,” Clifford recalls. “I had accepted that this was what I’d be doing for the rest of my life. And I was okay with that—I had work, freedom, and dignity, and that was enough.”
However, when Baby Boomers closed suddenly, Clifford found himself unemployed once again. That’s when his daughter introduced him to Project IOWA.
“She mentioned that Project IOWA offered training, so I decided to give it a try,” he says. “At the time, I thought I was too old to be trained, but I knew I needed to stay busy.”
Julie Fugenschuh, Executive Director of Project IOWA, saw Clifford’s potential from the beginning. “Clifford showed dedication, motivation, and found success at every corner of the program,” she shares.
One pivotal connection Clifford made during the program was with Scott Burgmeyer, a Project IOWA board member and instructor who worked at Bridgestone. Clifford remembers, “I told him I had applied at Firestone before but didn’t get far. Scott explained how to apply to improve my chances of getting an interview. I followed his advice, completed the application, and handed it directly to the hiring team.”
Clifford credits Scott and a crucial moment during the program for shaping his journey. Scott encouraged him to take the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) test, a step Clifford believes was life-changing. “If Scott hadn’t called me that day, I might not be where I am now. That phone call was a crossroads, and I’m so grateful I answered.”
In 2013, shortly after completing Project IOWA, Clifford shared his goals: “I have aspirations of continuing with Bridgestone long-term, and I look forward to celebrating many anniversaries here.”
Today, Clifford has achieved just that. Over the past 12 years, he has held four different positions at Bridgestone/Firestone and currently works as a Banbury Cleaner, a vital role ensuring that production belts are clean and properly oiled. Without his work, tires couldn’t be manufactured.
His employers praise him as a dedicated and reliable employee. “Clifford has seniority, gets along well with everyone, and demonstrates a work ethic that is both consistent and admirable.”
Reflecting on his career journey, Clifford says, “I’ve tried different roles, and while some weren’t for me—like one where I ended up ruining a few tires—I’m always willing to try new things and learn from my mistakes.”
Currently, Clifford works three 12-hour shifts a week, a schedule he appreciates as it allows him time for his passions. He enjoys spending time with his cat, Kitty, riding his two Harley motorcycles, and watching Judge Judy. “She just makes a lot of sense to me,” he chuckles.
Clifford is particularly proud of his attendance record. “Since starting at Bridgestone in February 2013, I haven’t missed a single scheduled day or been late once,” he beams.
However, life hasn’t been without its hardships. A few years ago, Clifford lost his son, with whom he shared a close bond. “My son ‘had the shine,’” Clifford says wistfully. “I had hoped he would snap out of it and get on the right path, but he couldn’t. It’s been hard, but I’ve leaned on others who’ve experienced similar losses. Their wisdom has helped me through.”
One poignant moment stands out: “I was cleaning out my voicemails and came across one from him. He wasn’t asking for money this time—he just said, ‘Dad, I love you. I’m calling to check in and see how you’re doing.’”
Clifford takes solace in the fact that he was able to provide his son with a proper burial. “I was able to do that for him,” he says with quiet pride.
Even now, Clifford stays connected to Project IOWA and speaks highly of its team, particularly Tony Wilson, who encouraged him with the words, “You can do anything you put your mind to,” and Julie, whose open-door policy he deeply values.
With a broad smile, Clifford reflects on his journey: “It’s still one day at a time, but I’ve been sober for 16 years now. I consider myself a wealthy man because I have everything I need.”
