Bad Bananas & Beyond: Creative Tools for Employment Success

This webinar revisits a 2018 Wise webinar session, Bad Bananas, with a fresh 2.0 twist—bringing new insights and engaging storytelling to the world of creative workplace supports. Presenter Emily Harris will showcase how simple (and fun!) it can be to develop customized on-the-job tools that foster independence and success. Through real-life examples, she’ll demonstrate how these tools not only support fading strategies but also enhance long-term employment outcomes. Emily will also share practical tips for gathering information about an individual’s strengths and support needs—and how to transform that knowledge into innovative workplace solutions.

Curious about what bananas, tape, cats, and Gene Simmons have in common? Join us to find out!

Emily Harris has a lifelong connection to the disability community, shaping her career and passion for equitable employment. With over 16 years of experience, she has worked as an Employment Consultant, Positive Behavior Support Consultant, and Trainer. Emily has collaborated with individuals, families, employers, schools, and agencies across the Pacific Northwest and internationally in New Zealand. She believes in inclusion and full participation as essential truths, with work being a key component of this journey.

Emily holds a Bachelor of Science in Arts and Letters, focusing on Women’s Studies and English, and is a Certified Employment Professional through APSE. She served for seven years on the National APSE Employment Support Professional Certification Council, working to professionalize supported employment and empower professionals.

As a trainer, Emily excels in Person-Centered Planning, Discovery, graphic facilitation, video resumes & storytelling, Job Development, and Customized Employment. She is passionate about networking for Employment Consultants, collaborating with community employers, and empowering siblings in peer support roles. Currently, she leads the Wise Online Academy 100 Series, an international training program supporting over 250 students annually in securing sustainable employment.

Emily loves connecting with people and believes community connections are key to meaningful employment opportunities. Her enthusiasm for forging connections drives her work in equitable employment to new heights.