The women who made America's microchips and the children who paid for it
Briefly

Mark Flores, a 44-year-old with intellectual disabilities, finds joy in drawing birthday cakes, showcasing his ability to connect with others despite early medical predictions. His mother, Yvette, who originally worked in Silicon Valley's semiconductor industry, reflects on her journey as she bilaterally advocates for safety regulations after suffering from hazardous workplace conditions. The shift from cannery jobs to factory work transformed her community, highlighting the struggles faced by many women and young workers in the changing job landscape. Their story resonates with the need for acknowledgment and support for those with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Mark's mother, Yvette, reflects on her life in Silicon Valley, noting that she and many others faced harmful workplace conditions while working in semiconductor manufacturing.
Doctors once predicted Mark wouldn't be capable of interacting with others, but he has proven them wrong by showing joy and sociability in his everyday life.
Yvette’s journey from a factory worker handling dangerous substances to becoming a strong advocate for workplace safety showcases the overlooked struggles of women in technology.
Despite the challenges imposed by his intellectual disabilities, Mark engages confidently with others, breaking the preconceived notions about individuals with disabilities.
Read at The Verge
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