IOTI - Supported Employment Specialist Training

2009

Project Context Adults with developmental disabilities, mental illness or a dual diagnosis want to work but often need support to achieve job readiness. Others are ready to enter or re-enter the workforce, already possessing marketable skills, education and experience, but needing assistance with their job search. Supported employment specialists can provide the support that these individuals need to be successful in the workforce. Supported Employment program gives employers access to well-trained, productive staff members who are motivated to work. Project Focus: The Supported Employment Specialist Training project (SEST) is designed to train paraprofessionals to serve as job coaches in supported employment using a competency-based approach that teaches both knowledge and application of knowledge in the field. Community service organizations can refer employees for the training on topics pertinent to experienced job coaches and the consumers they serve. Individuals who enroll in the 24 hour SEST training will be given access to a comprehensive online training web-site (http://utahsupportedemployment.org). Each online module serves as a resource for professionals working in the field and includes a variety of useful links and downloads relevant to the roles and responsibilities of an employment specialist. Technical assistance will be available to address the individual needs of the trainees/agencies. To certify, SEST trainees must pass all competencies administered with a score of 80% or better and they must design and implement a job training program and assessment and job development procedures. Certified teachers who complete the core training are eligible for professional development credit from the Utah State Office of Education. The SEST has also received a subcontract from the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation to develop a comprehensive webpage for supported employment specialists http://utahsupportedemployment.alpha.rnbstudios.com/. This website is fully interactive and includes online registration for the SEST trainings, online evaluations, modules, and tests. Individuals who enroll in the 24 hour SEST training are given access to the training modules. The website also serves as a resource for professionals working in the field and includes a variety of useful links and downloads relevant to the roles and responsibilities of an employment specialist. Products/Services: This project will provide the following services: 1. Supported Employment Specialist Training (SEST), a 24-hour online competency-based training designed for employment specialists, transition specialist, and other professionals who support people with disabilities in the workplace. 2. Technical assistance to SEST trained individuals and agencies. 3. Specialty supported employment trainings on topics ranging from Social Security Work Incentives, developing behavior supports in the workplace, and transition from school to adult services. 4. A comprehensive webpage for supported employment specialists http://utahsupportedemployment.alph.rnbstudios.com/

Training, Paraprofessional, Supported Employment, Job Coach, IOTI

Training Trainees

Education & Early Intervention, Employment-Related Activities, Quality of Life

Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Professionals and Para-Professionals

Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas, Empowerment Zone, Urban

State

N/A