To be considered for the program, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age.
2. Agree that this will be the last year of school eligibility and have completed all High School credits and graduation requirements or have been determined to graduate based on the completion of IEP goals.
3. Meet eligibility requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation.
4. Meet eligibility requirements for the Office of Intellectual Disabilities (preferred but not required).
5. Have independent personal hygiene and grooming skills.
6. Have independent daily living skills.
7. Maintain appropriate behavior and social skills in the workplace.
8. Take direction from supervisors and change behavior.
9. Be able to communicate effectively.
10. Have independent transportation resources.
11. Have previous experience in a work environment (including school, volunteer, and paid work).
12. Pass drug screen and background checks.
13. Immunizations must be up to date.
14. Have the desire and plan to work competitively in the community at the conclusion of the Unlocking Potential program.

Benefits to Participants

• Acquire competitive, transferable, and marketable skills
• Participate in three (3) internship rotations with UPMC for employment readiness and career exploration
• Gain increased independence, confidence, and self-esteem
• Individualized skills training, instruction, and feedback
• Assistance with applying for jobs and onboarding if acquired

Functional academic curriculum that stresses employability and independent living skills, such as:

• Using and applying technology
• Developing self-advocacy skills
• Participating in travel training
• Working responsibly
• Communicating effectively
• Solving problems and developing critical thinking skills
• Social skills development
• Planning and managing a career
• Money management

Who Can Apply?

• Individuals with an IEP with intellectual or developmental disability
• At least 18 years of age by the start of the program
• Completed all high school credit and graduation requirements
• Last FULL year of high school eligibility preferred
• Has agreed that the Work Immersion Program will be their last year of school
• Desire to achieve competitive employment

The application window is December through January for the following school year. Applying to the program should be an IEP Team decision. If interested, please talk with your IEP case manager.