While millions of unemployed struggle to find a job, one person found a job last September. Not only did he find a job, but it’s one he enjoys.

Matthew Smith spends his days working at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station’s Recycling Center where he sorts white paper out of giant bins.

Managers at the the recycling station have seen production go up while Smith’s presence brought stability to the work line.

To reward Smith, who lives with autism, he was made employee of the quarter by the folks at the recycling station.

“He’s our morale guy,” said Les Hastings, an inventory management specialist for the recycling station. “The energy he brings here is awesome.”

Smith moved here summer of 2002 to be closer to family, who live in Freeland.

“I figured this recycling job was good for me,” Smith said. “It’s nice to be up this way and work with such fun people.”

Employees held a brief ceremony Jan. 17 to thank him for his efforts.

“I’m not used to being in the limelight,” Smith said.

Smith got the position through Island Employment Services, a non-profit organization that provides job services to people with disabilities.

“(Smith’s) disability is an advantage because he can focus on the paper,” said Dick Hall, vocation specialist with Island Employment Services.

Smith originally worked for Island County Historical Society but was transferred to the recycling station because it provided a better match for his abilities.

Island County Employment Services provides job development and training to help secure stable employment. The service also works to match potential employees with positions.

The NAS Recycling Station employs four people from Island Employment Services and businesses such as Pizza Hut and Island County Public Works Department have used such employees.