Community Inclusion Bootcamp

This session introduces an innovative assistive technology solution designed to support independence and inclusion for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD). In collaboration with the University of Washington Employment Program (UWEP), the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program (WATAP), and WOOF3D, this project uses 3D printing to create customizable, wearable bracelets that provide visual prompts and communication supports.

These bracelets offer a discreet, low-cost alternative to traditional support tools that can be tailored to individual needs. Each bracelet features individualized icons for communication, task sequencing, mindfulness, reminders, etc. – empowering users to express needs nonverbally, follow routines, and manage self-regulation.

The presentation will cover the design and implementation process, including assessing needs, customizing icons, and training for independent use. Real-world case studies will demonstrate applications in daily living and employment contexts. Future directions include expanding access through public 3D printing resources and developing software for easy customization.

The latest technology trends—especially Artificial Intelligence—are powerful tools that can empower people with disabilities by helping them learn new skills and adapt to the rapidly changing workplace.

In this presentation, we will explore the key technology trends of 2025 and demonstrate how they can be used support and empower workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Learn how to use these tools to foster a more inclusive, innovative, and successful workforce for everyone.

This session will focus on empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to make their own choices and take control of decisions in their lives. It will offer practical strategies, tools, and support to promote self-determination, enabling individuals to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. Throughout the session, we will emphasize the importance of honoring and respecting each person’s voice, perspective, and decisions.

Led by a trainer with lived experience of disability, this interactive training helps professionals learn how to support employees who are aging or experiencing changes in their physical abilities at work. Participants will explore strategies to create inclusive workplaces, adapt supports as needs evolve, and promote opportunities for continued growth. The session highlights practical accommodations, communication approaches, and tools to sustain employment success and dignity for every worker.

This online, instructor-led course helps educators and employment specialists support students and job seekers in building a website portfolio to showcase their strengths, skills, and talents. Attendees will learn practical digital tools to boost digital literacy, support career exploration, and guide people in sharing their story with potential employers. This course is for transition educators, job developers, and others who want to strengthen their technology skills and support career planning in a creative, empowering way. Website portfolios offer a dynamic and accessible tool for job seekers to present their abilities and build confidence in their career journey.

The Recruit, Cultivate and Retain series is designed to support managers in strengthening their leadership and workforce development skills. This training provides practical strategies to improve team satisfaction and retention, support career advancement, and foster a workplace culture of growth and accountability. Topics include effective recruiting, onboarding, conflict management, and leadership development. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with a network of peers to share insights and strengthen community-wide collaboration.

The Community Inclusion Bootcamp is a three-day, skills-based training designed for professionals who provide or oversee Community Inclusion services. This intensive workshop covers Person-Centered Planning, community mapping, informational interviewing, and the development of meaningful Community Inclusion plans. Attendees will work hands-on to help individuals define their vision for community belonging, explore local opportunities, and create actionable goals. Ongoing learning is supported through connection with a statewide Community Inclusion cohort.

Start Now is a hands-on, interactive workshop series designed for middle school, high school, and transition-age students with disabilities and their families. This series supports early planning for community employment and adult life. With a focus on practical skills, Person-Centered practices, and family involvement, attendees build self-advocacy and life skills while creating a one-page profile that helps shape their future path.

Project NEXT is a dynamic series of workshops designed to support individuals with disabilities, their families, and their teams as they prepare for the transition to Community Integrated Employment. Through interactive and Person-Centered sessions, attendees will explore the future of work, build practical skills, and identify what they want for their lives. This training helps build a strong foundation for employment by focusing on what’s important to and for each individual. Whether delivered in person or online, this workshop series brings people together to plan for what’s next.

Plan to Placement integrates Person-Centered Planning with job development, providing attendees with essential tools for successful job placement. This course bridges a long-standing gap between planning and employment outcomes by guiding attendees through a full employment path—from discovery to placement—using Person-Centered Employment Planning tools. Attendees work directly with job seekers from their caseloads and receive practical guidance throughout the course to align their strategies with each individual’s unique strengths, interests, and conditions for success.

Start strong with the Wise Online Academy (WOA) 100 Series ACRE, an essential, on-demand training built around the core competencies of Customized Employment. Designed for professionals who are new to the field or seeking to sharpen their skills, this course delivers practical tools and real-world strategies you can use immediately to improve employment outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

It is designed for people working in the field of vocational services for people with disabilities, including Employment Specialists, Job Coaches, Job Developers, Vocational Specialists and others.

The training series consists of self-paced online training content:

• Course 1. Introduction to Customized Employment, Discovery & Person-Centered Planning
• Course 2. Introduction to Job Development & Marketing
• Course 3. Systematic Instruction: Teaching, Learning, & Retaining Jobs
• Course 4. How Public Benefits support Employment: Social Security Benefits & Work Incentives

The Wise Online Academy 200 Series is an advanced-level training program designed for experienced professionals in the employment support field. This six-month practicum offers a comprehensive blend of advanced theory, applied learning experiences, and mentorship. Attendees will build on their existing skills to move toward leadership roles in Customized Employment and Supported Employment services.

Through live virtual sessions, on-demand content, and guided practicum work, attendees will deepen their understanding of discovery, job development, and systematic instruction, helping to create more inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities.