Starting in Fall 2024, Progressive Employment Concepts will be providing Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to students ages 16-21, with a focus on a systematic approach tailored for individuals with more complex support needs and those seeking comprehensive pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS).

We emphasize the importance of students understanding all concepts introduced in Pre-ETS, which led us to develop a curriculum that builds upon itself, offering both group and one-on-one time.

1. Self-Advocacy
2. Postsecondary Counseling
3. Workplace Readiness
4. Job Exploration

We conclude the curriculum with Paid Work Experience (PWE), providing students with practical, hands-on opportunities to apply what they’ve learned. We advocate for its inclusion as a crucial component of the curriculum. We believe that all students, regardless of their support needs, can benefit from structured work experience. For students requiring on-site support, we are committed to collaborating with the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and/or Regional Center (RC) to provide job coaching services, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in this service. 

We believe this structure ensures that students fully understand each concept, ensuring a cohesive learning experience. However, we recognize that some students may only want to engage with specific parts of the curriculum, and we are adaptable to accommodate their needs. 

Each of the four curriculum areas will be taught throughout ten consecutive sessions. The length of each session will vary depending on the number of students and individual support needs- usually 1-2 hours.  Nonetheless, we firmly believe in the value of a holistic approach to pre-employment training.

1. Self-Advocacy

• Understanding Advocacy: What is self-advocacy, and why is it important?
• Skills Needed to be an Advocate: Effective communication and decision-making.
• Advocacy in My Life: Applying advocacy in personal and professional settings.
• Understanding Your Right to Work: Knowledge of rights and workplace accommodations.
• Mentoring & Leadership: Opportunities for mentoring and youth leadership.

2. Postsecondary Counseling

• Exploring Options: Understanding educational and career pathways.
• Research & Application: Navigating school websites, applying for programs, and seeking disability services.
• Financial Planning: Budgeting for college and other postsecondary expenses.

3. Workplace Readiness

• Developing Social Skills: Communication, professionalism, and workplace boundaries.
• Job Seeking Skills: Preparing for interviews, understanding employer expectations.
• Financial Literacy: Budgeting, banking, and understanding employment benefits.

4. Job Exploration

• Understanding Me: Identifying interests and skills through inventories and discovery activities.
• Understanding Business: Researching job markets, exploring self-employment, and engaging in informational meetings.

5. Paid Work Experience (PWE)

• Job Development & Negotiation: Securing employment opportunities.
• Job Support: Collaborating with DOR and/or Regional Center to provide job coaching services.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our Pre-ETS services, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your goals.