FITCHBURG – A group of recent graduates are ready to hit the workforce, thanks to on-the-job training specifically for young adults with special needs.
Daniel Velez could hardly wait to get his hands on his certificate because of what the achievement means. “I’m very proud that I did this,” said the Worcester resident, who now lives in Hudson.
He is one of 12 people graduating from Monty Tech’s first-ever “STEP” program, a special grant opportunity offered by the Commonwealth Corporation that provides workforce training for young adults with disabilities.
A real community effort
The development of the program was a true community effort, starting with Monty Tech educators who had a special interest in serving this population, CAPS Collaborative identifying students who would benefit, and local businesses agreeing to serve as program partners , internship providers and even future employers for their students.
“I was in graphic communications, which was very exciting. The process was very interesting. We used a lot of machines and it was just so great,” explains Sophia Brown.
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The students learned not only what to do at work, but also how to get a job. Things like interview etiquette and resume writing. How to show bosses why they are such a good employee.
“I’m very social. Time management. I get my tasks done and things like that,” Velez explains.
“I like to help. And I’m so friendly,” said Brendon Hackenbracht about his strengths.
The school hopes to expand the program
Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School is the only vocational school in Massachusetts to ever apply for and receive this grant. The school plans to expand the program and hopes other vocational schools will follow suit.
“I think they’re very brave, I think they face a lot of challenges and the least we can do is open some doors for them,” said Katy Whitaker.
