Progressive Employment for Individuals with the Most Significant Disabiltiies

2026

This field-initiated project is researching the progressive employment (PE) model for individuals with the most significant disabilities and significant disabilities served by state vocational rehabilitation agencies and community rehabilitation providers. The PE model is a dual-customer strategy that uses work-based learning strategies to meet the needs of both the business and the jobseeker with a disability while minimizing the risks for both parties. Fidelity to the model is measured in the key areas of: (1) dual-customer design; (2) team approach; (3) focus on high-risk or difficult to place consumers; (4) emphasis on rapid engagement; (5) mechanism for set asides or training offsets for work experience pay; (6) liability and workers compensation insurance for trainees; and (7) data tracking tools for PE. The objective of this project is to determine the impact of PE, when implemented with fidelity, as a strategy for improving competitive employment outcomes for people with barriers to employment. To meet this objective, researchers conduct systematic data collection and secondary analysis of progressive employment implementation data and vocational rehabilitation case file data recorded in four states; create a PE fidelity of implementation scale and measure PE model implementation integrity; compare employment outcomes for groups receiving PE and not receiving PE services in a three-to-four year period; and disseminate research findings to inform future randomized control trials of PE.

Progressive Employment, return to work, MSD, employer engagement

Performing Research or Evaluation, Other Direct/Model Services

Employment-Related Activities

Professionals and Para-Professionals, Adults with Disabilities

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Rural/Remote, Urban, Other

Regional, National

N/A