By Jordan Christie, MSBA, MSABA Candidate, Employment Support Specialist
It’s not uncommon for young people to get their first job at age 16. Once they can drive, they are free to hold a job while finishing high school. But often, this isn’t the case for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may need job support that only becomes available after graduation.
The good news is that more work experiences for young people with disabilities are being offered every year. For example, we offer almost 100 local high schoolers a paid work experience in cooperation with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MODESE) each summer. For the last two years, we’ve also hosted a Summer Inclusion Manufacturing Camp in partnership with SparkForce, the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association.
These early work experiences can be game-changers for young people with disabilities — and here’s why.
5 Benefits of Vocational Training & Work Experiences for Adults with Disabilities:
- Learning (and practicing) new skills.
Work experiences give young people the chance to learn fundamental skills that are not only valued by employers but also helpful in everyday life. Teamwork, communication, time management, adaptability, and problem-solving are skills everyone needs! And under the guidance of a skilled job coach, mastering soft skills such as work ethic, responsibility, and professional conduct happens more organically in the workplace. - Gaining perspective on career preferences.
Job placement for young adults with special needs offers an opportunity to explore different careers while gaining insight into their individual interests. When someone gets a chance to try a job, they can decide, “Does this job match my strengths? Do I like the work? Is this something I can see myself doing after graduation?” The experience lets them gain personal insight into their strengths and job preferences — allowing them to make better-informed decisions when pursuing higher education or forming long-term career goals. - Starting on a path to future financial independence.
Work teaches young people the value of a dollar and helps them practice financial responsibility. With an income, individuals also get to better understand how to manage, budget, and save their earnings. In the long term, these money management skills are essential in achieving financial independence. - Building self-confidence.
By navigating real-world tasks, young adults enhance their self-confidence and develop the flexibility to adapt to challenges. Exposure to diverse roles helps them adjust to new situations, a valuable skill in any career. Overcoming workplace obstacles fosters a sense of achievement and boosts self-esteem. These experiences also encourage resilience and a proactive mindset, providing a strong foundation for future success. - Boosting their resume.
Strong work history is key to building a resume. Reliability and work ethic are qualities highly valued by employers. Similarly, employers value learning and professional development. A well-rounded resume, bolstered by various work experience, stands out from other applicants and offers better chances of getting noticed.
The Evidence for Early Work Experience
Research consistently shows that individuals who gain early work experience have better career outcomes: higher employment rates, higher salaries and wages, and greater job satisfaction. Whether the early work experiences are structured chores at home, internships, or even volunteer work, they all provide invaluable experience and help foster personal and professional growth.
Sheltered Employment as a Fundamental First Step
For many young people with disabilities, sheltered employment, such as BCI’s organizational program, can be a helpful first step after high school graduation. Organizational employment offers a structured environment where individuals can develop skills, build confidence, and prepare for what’s next. Working under the full support of a sheltered workshop can foster a smoother transition to more independent, competitive work roles.
Work experience helps young adults of all abilities build a foundation for future success. They come away with a better understanding of work environments and gain a competitive edge over other applicants. A summer job or part-time opportunity helps them cultivate career goals, foster valuable work skills, and ultimately provides a path to future career opportunities. Gaining these experiences can make all the difference in shaping a fulfilling and prosperous future — especially for disabled young adults.