Matthew V. Blackwell Featured In Career Spotlight, Advocates For Support During Economic Disruption
Economic Disruption Has Touched Millions of American Families
Over the last several years, economic volatility has reshaped the workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 20 million jobs were lost at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and millions of workers have since faced layoffs, role changes, or forced career pivots due to supply chain disruptions, inflation, and market shifts says these changes have left many capable people struggling to regain stability.“You don't have to be on the inside of a crisis to see its impact,” he said.“From the outside looking in, you can see how hard it is for people to get their footing again once momentum is lost.”He notes that career rebuilding often comes with hidden pressure - financial strain, family stress, and a lack of clear direction.“People want to work. They want purpose,” Blackwell said.“But rebuilding takes time, structure, and support.”
Leadership, Family, and Standards as Anchors
In the spotlight feature, Blackwell emphasized the importance of internal standards and family as stabilizing forces during uncertain periods.“My own standards drive me,” he said.“No one else sets them for me.”As a father and business owner based in Woodbridge, Connecticut, Blackwell sees firsthand how economic stress affects households, not just individuals.“Success for me starts with family,” he said.“Work is a tool to provide stability. When that stability gets shaken, the effects ripple outward.”He also points to community involvement as an important way to stay grounded. Blackwell volunteers between 12 and 20 hours per month as a Duty Officer with the American Red Cross and has supported organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the United Way.“Service gives people structure,” he said.“It reminds you that showing up still matters.”
A Practical Call to Action: Supporting Others Through Change
Blackwell is not asking for donations or policy changes. Instead, he encourages individuals, business owners, and leaders to take practical steps that make rebuilding easier for others:
1. Be intentional with opportunity. A conversation, referral, or honest feedback can help someone regain momentum.“Sometimes all people need is a signal that they're still valuable,” Blackwell said.
2. Normalize career pivots. Economic shifts force change. That doesn't mean failure.“Markets change. People adapt,” he noted.
3. Stay engaged locally. Volunteer groups, churches, and community organizations provide stability when systems feel uncertain.“You don't need to fix everything,” he said.“You just need to participate.”
4. Lead with consistency. Clear standards and steady habits help during unpredictable times.“Success changes over time,” Blackwell said.“Your standards shouldn't disappear when things get hard.”
5. Keep perspective.“Everyone is fighting something you may not see,” he added.“A little patience goes a long way.”
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Matthew V. Blackwell
Matthew V. Blackwell is an entrepreneur and operations leader based in Woodbridge, Connecticut. He is the owner of Woodbridge Farms and SeaSide Properties and has held leadership roles at ACNielsen BASES, Aurora Products, and Industrial Flow Solutions. He volunteers as a Duty Officer with the American Red Cross and is committed to community engagement, operational discipline, and long-term family stability.
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