TransCen MD/DC: Our Employment Services

TransCen, Inc., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving education and employment success of youth and young adults with disabilities. Our work is driven by the belief that employment and active community participation are attainable for all individuals, regardless of disability or other perceived barriers to employment.

We are a community rehabilitation provider through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS). We provide personalized vocational services to adults and pre-employment transition services to youth (ages 14-21) enrolled in school, with documented disabilities.

At TransCen, customization is our top priority. We take a person-centered approach by identifying each individual’s strengths and interests, then using those to customize a position/opportunity to fit their needs.

Pre-Employment Transition Services (For Youth, Ages 14-21)

Work-Based Learning Experience (WBLE)

We engage in a discovery process to help youth identify strengths and interests.
TransCen staff conduct outreach to employers based on the strengths and interests identified.
We coordinate 5-8 week work-based learning experiences to provide students with real-world job experiences, helping them build skills and discover career interests.
TransCen staff support youth throughout the entire WBLE to ensure success and a positive experience for all parties involved.

Self-Advocacy Instruction

Key Topics Include:
- Self-advocacy and workplace rights
- Communication and requesting accommodations
- Understanding IEPs and transition planning
- Goal setting and problem-solving
- Navigating workplace challenges

Job Exploration

Career Assessments: Using tools like ONET, Career OneStop, and MyNextMove to identify career interests.
Researching Career Options: Exploring job requirements, skills, and educational pathways.
Informational Interviews & Job Shadows: Gaining insights by interviewing employers and shadowing professionals.

Work Readiness Training

Skills to Pay the Bills: Covers workplace readiness skills, including:
- Communication
- Enthusiasm & Attitude
- Teamwork
- Networking
- Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
- Professionalism
Additional Training Includes:
- Financial Planning
- Transportation Training (Metro, Metro Bus, Ride On, WMATA Trip Planner, and SmartCards)

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (For Adults)

Job Development Preparation

Discovery Process: Identifying strengths, skills, and career interests.
Resume & Cover Letter Creation: Crafting tailored job application materials.
Interview Preparation: Creating an elevator pitch and engaging in mock interviews to build confidence.

Job Search Assistance

Employer Outreach: Employment consultants connect with local businesses to identify opportunities and foster relationships to expand employment options.
Application Support: Assisting job seekers with using job boards and submitting applications, ensuring they effectively showcase their skills and experience.
Interview Assistance: Employment consultants can accompany job seekers to their interviews, providing support to help them feel confident and prepared.
Assisting with Follow-Ups: Helping job seekers craft professional follow-up emails or calls to employers to express continued interest and reinforce a positive impression.
Arranging Job Trials/Job Shadows: Coordinating short-term opportunities for job seekers to experience a workplace while also providing job coaching.

Job Coaching

On-the-Job Support: Coaching individuals to help them succeed in their roles and build workplace relationships, fostering long-term job retention and career growth.
Accommodations & Workplace Strategies: Identifying and implementing strategies to enhance productivity and independence in the workplace, ensuring individuals have the tools they need to succeed.
Advocacy: Supporting individuals in understanding and asserting their rights in the workplace, including requesting reasonable accommodations when needed.

For more information, contact Ashley Cruise at acruise@transcen.org