Launching into Work is an evidence-informed occupational therapy framework designed to prepare adolescents and young adults with disabilities for competitive integrated employment. The session integrates research-identified predictors of employment success, including paid work experience, vocational preparation, self-determination, and workplace communication skills. Participants will explore how to apply predictor-based strategies and occupation-centered practices to improve employment readiness and long-term job sustainability. Practical tools, real case examples, and actionable planning steps will be provided to support implementation across education, VR, and community settings.
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will be able to identify evidence-based predictors of employment success (e.g., paid work experience, self-determination, vocational preparation) and explain how each informs intervention design.
- Participants will learn how to implement occupation-based strategies that strengthen job readiness including communication, workplace planning, and self-advocacy skills.
- Participants will gain practical tools to translate predictor research into transition plans and employment supports across education, VR, and community settings.
Resources
Speaker(s)
Collmer