MDHEWD recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month, highlighting accessibility and workforce opportunities

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) is honored to join national and state agencies and organizations in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual celebration of the positive impact and contributions individuals with disabilities have on the workforce. The theme of "Celebrating Value and Talent" reinforces the importance of expanding equal employment opportunities for all individuals.

"National Disability Employment Awareness Month is about recognizing the skills, value, and impact individuals with disabilities bring to our state's workplaces," said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of MDHEWD. "We are proud to support initiatives that expand access to training, education, and employment opportunities so all Missourians can achieve long-term career success."

MDHEWD and the National Disability Institute (NDI) partnered to help 2,500 youth with disabilities explore STEM career pathways through apprenticeship opportunities. Building on this foundation, the partnership expanded to include the Southeast Workforce Development Board to test community focused efforts and develop strategies that can be used statewide. So far, more than 30 partners from workforce, education, vocational rehabilitation, employers, and the community have worked together to map the pathways youth take toward STEM careers. This collaboration has strengthened coordination and produced practical tools, including the Youth Apprenticeship Toolkit and Youth Apprenticeship Playbook, to help partners connect youth with apprenticeships and other work-based learning opportunities. Missouri also continues to lead the nation in providing apprenticeship opportunities to those with disabilities to pursue high-quality careers.

"The pathways and resources developed through this project give youth with disabilities stronger guidance and more opportunities to explore and succeed in STEM careers," said Julie Carter, Director of the Office of Workforce Development. "This collaboration reflects Missouri's strong commitment to expanding opportunities for all individuals within our workforce system."

See individual success stories and helpful guides about exploring a career in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, and more by visiting the NDI website. Individuals can also visit Missouri Job Centers across the state to access employment services, training, and education to pursue new skills and career opportunities.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month began in 1945 as a weeklong recognition of people with physical disabilities and has since expanded to a monthlong celebration that embraces people with all disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other invisible disabilities. The month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness, highlight the importance of expanding access to employment, and showcase supportive workplace policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.

For more information about National Disability Employment Awareness Month, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website at dol.gov/NDEAM. Those interested in apprenticeship opportunities can visit the dhewd.mo.gov/workforce-development/apprenticeship-mo.