“Misconceptions around disability and a lack of workplace accommodations remain significant barriers, preventing many from accessing meaningful employment,” said Dr. Poppy Fitch, Dean of Wellness and DSPS. “Yet, businesses that embrace inclusive hiring practices benefit from diverse perspectives, improved problem-solving, stronger employee retention, and a more dynamic workforce.”
As National Disability Employment Awareness Month comes to a close, Disability Support Programs and Services (DSPS) is highlighting three innovative Workforce Programs designed to help students with disabilities succeed beyond the classroom.
WorkAbility III (WAIII): Empowering Through Tailored Support
Established in 1989 in partnership with the California Department of Rehabilitation, WorkAbility III (WAIII) is dedicated to helping students with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment. Through individualized services such as job development, internships, and employment preparation, WAIII ensures that students have the tools and support they need to succeed in their chosen careers. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in SDCCD classes and be clients of the California Department of Rehabilitation.
As WAIII Program Coordinator, Jamila DeCarli leads the program with a focus on providing personalized employment services tailored to the unique strengths of each student. Her dedication to empowering students from marginalized communities underscores her commitment to creating opportunities in various fields.
"The WorkAbility III staff prides itself on focusing on students' strengths, while helping them work through the social and economic barriers that can exist for many people with disabilities in the workforce,” said DeCarli.
Learn more at: WorkAbility III
College 2 Career (C2C): Preparing for Competitive Employment
The College 2 Career (C2C) program offers a three-year journey designed for students with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder. From college and career exploration in the first year, to hands-on training and work experience in the second, and finally employment placement and retention support in the third, C2C equips students with the skills needed for success in competitive, community-based employment.
Rachel Martinez, the C2C Program Coordinator, brings a wealth of experience in vocational support and rehabilitation counseling. Her dedication to fostering opportunities for students with disabilities reflects her passion for ensuring they achieve their career goals.
“This semester, our participants are engaged in a career workshop series designed to help them grow in their vocational awareness, readiness, and learning how to be as competitive as possible for the local job market in San Diego,” said Martinez. “By providing tailored support and programming, we hope to empower our students to pursue meaningful employment opportunities both during and after college.”
Learn more at: College 2 Career
Career Support Pathways (CSP): Pioneering for Wage Equity
Career Support Pathways (CSP) is the newest Workforce Program at DSPS, launched last year as part of California's mandate to eliminate subminimum wage by 2025. Funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Disability Innovation Fund, CSP helps individuals with disabilities transition from subminimum wage jobs to competitive, integrated employment. The program offers a spectrum of support, including assistive technology, peer mentorship, transportation, and customized vocational resources. Through paid work experience and tailored employment services, CSP helps participants align their skills with employer needs, fostering sustainable career opportunities.
CSP Program Coordinator Shawn Fiala draws from his extensive experience in education and vocational services to guide participants through their journey to meaningful employment. His belief in the potential of every student drives his work as he supports individuals in overcoming barriers and achieving long-term success.
“The San Diego Community College District is proud to be part of the important movement toward ending sub-minimum wage employment,” said Fiala.
Learn more at: Career Support Pathways
Next Steps
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know could benefit from one of our DSPS Workforce Programs. Employers interested in diversifying their recruitment strategies are encouraged to reach out and explore partnerships with DSPS.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics