October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

AIR has a strong team of researchers dedicated to projects that help individuals with disabilities pursue employment opportunities. Our diverse portfolio of work generates knowledge and resources focused on education, health and rehabilitation, and job training.

In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we highlight projects that prepare those with disabilities for positive employment outcomes:

1. Center for Technology Implementation
   AIR operates the Center for Technology Implementation (CTI). Funded by the Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, CTI has developed and is field-testing PowerUp WHAT WORKS. This online environment provides a strategic approach to guiding school leaders and teachers as they integrate technology into inclusive classrooms. AIR’s vision for this project is to strengthen educational opportunities for students with disabilities during their formative years so they will have the academic foundation needed to pursue higher education and employment opportunities. Learn more about CTI and PowerUp WHAT WORKS at www.PowerUpWhatWorks.org. 
    
2. Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center
   AIR operates the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC). Funded by the Department of Education, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), the MSKTC summarizes research, identifies health information needs, and develops information resources to meet the needs of individuals with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and burn injuries. Find resources specific to these injury types and employment—and more—at www.MSKTC.org.
    
3. Soft Skills Training for Youth
   AIR developed a soft skills curriculum to help youth with disabilities function effectively in the workplace. AIR also developed technical assistance briefs to help One-Stop Centers and schools that provide employment transition services to youth with disabilities. See the project’s two briefs: Teaching Soft Skills Through Workplace Simulations in Classroom Setting and Effective Integration of Technology and Instructor-Led Training to Promote Soft Skills Mastery. Learn more here: http://www.air.org/focus-area/training-workforce/index.cfm?fa=viewContent&content_id=264.