Q: What is your background in supporting workers and access to employment opportunities?
Employment is about more than a paycheck. It’s about having opportunities, making choices, and feeling connected. Over the course of my career in education and workforce development, I’ve supported efforts to help people access learning and employment opportunities. Through the My ROAD projects, I’ve learned from people with disabilities, families, and employers about both the challenges and the supports that help people with IDD succeed. One lesson that stands out is that workplace accommodations benefit everyone. They help employees do their best work and help employers build stronger, more inclusive workplaces. This work has reinforced the importance of creating opportunities that match each person’s goals, strengths, and interests. It has also strengthened my belief in the dignity of risk, the idea that everyone deserves the chance to make choices, try new things, and learn through both successes and setbacks.
Q: What helps people feel supported when they take on a new job, learn a new skill, or pursue a new opportunity?
Growth often starts with trying something new, and that can feel a little uncertain for anyone. The right support can make all the difference. Workplace accommodations are one part of that support, but so are good training, clear communication, supportive supervisors, and opportunities to ask questions and learn. The reality is that an inclusive workplace is better for everyone. When people feel welcomed, supported, and respected, they’re more likely to contribute their ideas, develop new skills, and succeed. An inclusive workplace also helps people feel welcomed, respected, and comfortable being themselves. Employers benefit, too, by creating a stronger workplace where people are engaged, productive, and able to contribute their best ideas.
People are more likely to take on new challenges when they know support is available. These supports help people build confidence, learn new skills, and work toward their goals. Success isn’t just about getting something right the first time; it’s also about learning, growing, and continuing to move forward.
Q: What are some examples of workplace supports people might not immediately think about?
When people think about workplace accommodations, they often picture things like wheelchair ramps or specialized equipment. Those supports are important, but many accommodations are much simpler. They might include flexible scheduling, written instructions, extra time to learn a new task, noise-canceling headphones, adjusted lighting, or regular check-ins with a supervisor. Sometimes, the most effective support is simply having clear communication and a workplace where employees feel comfortable asking for what they need.
Many of these supports can benefit a wide range of employees, not just people with disabilities. In fact, most people can think of a time when a little extra flexibility, guidance, or understanding helped them succeed. The goal of a workplace support is to create the conditions that help people do their best work, contribute their strengths, and continue learning and growing on the job.
Q: Why is it important for services to move beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach to workplace training and accommodations?
Everyone learns and works differently. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t recognize that people have different strengths, goals, and support needs. When training and workplace supports are flexible, people are more likely to build confidence, learn new skills, and succeed in their jobs.
This approach benefits employers, too. When people get the support they need, they are better able to contribute their talents and do their best work. The goal isn’t for everyone to receive exactly the same support; it’s for everyone to have the support they need to be successful.
Success doesn’t look the same for every person. Creating different pathways to learn and grow helps more people reach their goals and continue moving forward.
Q: What advice would you give people who want to find more support from bosses, colleagues, or supporters at work?
My advice is to remember that asking for support is a normal part of learning and growing at work. No one succeeds alone. Having someone you trust, whether it’s a supervisor, coworker, mentor, or family member, can make a big difference.
It also helps to be clear about what you need. People often want to help but may not know how. Letting others know what works for you can open the door to better support.
Look for people who listen, encourage you, and help you build on your strengths. Support isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about building confidence and helping people grow. We all do better when we have people in our corner who believe in us and want to see us succeed.
Q: In your free time, what do you do for fun?
I love living somewhere that experiences all four seasons and spending time outdoors whenever I can. I’m also a big fan of cozy hobbies like reading, knitting, and video games. There’s a good chance you’ll find me at my local yarn store working on one of several knitting projects and catching up with friends. And when NBA season rolls around, I’m cheering loudly for the Oklahoma City Thunder!
