JOB TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
ON-THE-JOB TRAINING,
JOB READINESS &
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Spectrum Works partners with companies to build its job training and employment program into their everyday operations. The program is available to both high school students and individuals post graduation.
THE PROGRAMS
Engage. Employ. Empower
Spectrum Works’ unique job training and employment program offers young adults with autism the skills, real life job experiences, and networking opportunities they need to get and keep a job. The program incorporates integrated on-the-job training, classroom based learning, and competitive employment opportunities via partnerships with local corporations.
Social deficits pose great challenges for people with autism, and often this lack of soft skills creates their greatest obstacles to obtaining and maintaining employment. In order to maximize success on the job, Spectrum Works dedicates part of its program to teaching and practicing these skills (e.g., communication, conflict resolution, managing stress, problem-solving, etc.) through fun and dynamic hands-on activities in a classroom setting.
Since Spectrum Works partners with existing companies, students get the unique opportunity to apply and practice these skills in a truly integrated work setting early on and throughout the program. Spectrum Works’ on-site program staff and partner company mentors support the individuals in both settings, so they can tailor their instruction to students’ workplace experiences. The program is tiered to match a student’s skill level as well as their ability to work autonomously.
The program allows young adults with autism to enter a workplace as a paid trainee, work alongside neuro-typical coworkers, and learn the skills needed to be outstanding employees. The inclusive, supportive workplace empowers student trainees with the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
The High School Job Training Program (Structured Learning Experiences): Spectrum Works contracts with the high school and students attend during their school day. The program takes place in a competitive, integrated employment environment in which high school students, age 16 to 21, work alongside neurotypical employees and are supported by Spectrum Works staff.
The Post High School Job Training Program: Young adults who no longer attend high school still have the opportunity to attend the program. For eligibility requirements and funding options, please fill in the form at the bottom of this page.
THE SPECTRUM WORKS JOB TRAINING MODEL
Students gain independence, a sense of purpose, and take pride in their work
WORK ETHIC/
PERFORMANCE
SOCIAL SKILLS/
COMMUNICATION
RESPONSIBILITY/
INDEPENDENCE
SELF-ESTEEM/
CONFIDENCE
My students are in real work experiences with high expectations and have opportunities for meaningful employment after graduation. Thank you Spectrum Works!
– Thomas Beese, Newmark High School
I support the program of Spectrum Works to anyone who is on the spectrum needing job training, guidance and support. With much enthusiasm, I can say that with this program I have thus far achieved my employment goals.
– Former Spectrum Works student , currently employed at one of our partner companies
The staff at Spectrum Works has tirelessly worked to ensure the success of my students, guiding them through the many intricacies of gaining and maintaining employment in a community-based setting. Each Spectrum Works employee takes the time to cultivate a strong working relationship with each individual student, which allows them to personalize the job training program.
- Kelly Le Strange, Morris Knolls High School
My son Noah has blossomed in all aspects given the opportunity to work with Spectrum and the caring people around him. I’m sure he will use the tools learned with the staff and community at Spectrum in the future as he continues to grow.
- Annette Bush, Parent
INDUSTRIES WE WORK WITH
IT/ADMINISTRATION/
GRAPHIC DESIGN
DISTRIBUTION/
MANUFACTURING
HOSPITALITY
Students work alongside Spectrum Works' job coaches and partner company employees to develop work-related skills. The program is tiered to match an individual's skill level and abilities.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
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currently attending high school
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must be between the ages of 16-21
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must be diagnosed with autism
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contact beverly@spectrumworks.org
POST HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
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no longer attending high school
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must be between the ages of 18-30
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must be diagnosed with autism
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highly motivated to learn new job skills and become employed
Post High School programs are available through DDD or privately. Spectrum Works is an authorized service provider of the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) for Pre-Vocational Training and Supported Employment.