Marc Salter: Rockingham local with intellectual disability lands dream job at Challenger Ford

Car fiend Marc Salter is living his dream, washing cars and assisting mechanics at Challenger Ford.

The Rockingham local has dreamt of a job in the car industry since childhood but because of an intellectual disability had stayed unemployed until this year.

Despite not needing to work due to the full-time care he receives via disability support provider Interchange, Mr Salter sought a role in the automotive industry.

He has been volunteering since 2023 before starting in the paid position.

Support worker Nicola Rowland said Mr Salter took pride in being part of the Ford team as a part-time worker.

“It gives him a sense of belonging and purpose,” she said.

“The team at Challenger Ford has gone above and beyond to be accommodating and make Marc feel valued.”

Ms Rowland said an unforgettable moment on the job was when a co-worker surprised Mr Salter with a ride in a Mustang, his favourite car.

She said his story showed it did not matter if you had a disability as long as you had a community to support you.

“This job means everything to him and having the support and kindness of Ford has been incredible to witness,” she said.