The last time we wrote about employment for amputees during the pandemic, the economy was in free fall and Congress was cranking out emergency stabilizers every few days. While things seem to have settled down since then, it can still be a challenge to find work in this country. That’s especially true for individuals with limb difference, who often struggle to return to work after amputation.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is still more than two months away. But if you’re in the job market, clear your calendar for next Thursday, July 23, for two virtual events that focus on employment opportunities for workers with disabilities.
At the ABILITY Job Fair you can interact in real time, face to face, with employers who are actively recruiting to fill current vacancies. Participating organizations come from all over the country and include corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits. You’ll find postings of every type, from entry-level clerical and administrative jobs to professional positions in IT, sales, finance, marketing, accounting, HR, education, and so forth. Keep in mind, these employers are specifically looking for qualified candidates who have disabilities (as defined by the Americans With Disabilities Act). There’s no cost, but you so have to pre-register for the event, which begins at 1 p.m. Eastern / 10 a.m. Pacific. It’s sponsored by Ability Jobs, disabled workforce mavens for the last 25 years and counting. The recruiters will be able to see you, so comb your hair and put on a decent top at the very least. If you feel like wearing boxer shorts / pajamas underneath, that’s your business.
Also next Thursday, the ABLE Trust is hosting a free webinar to examine the latest data on hiring trends and workforce opportunities. While this event is specific to the job market in Florida, the content likely has at least some application to your community. The panel will include officials from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and the state’s Society of Human Resource Managers. Registration is currently open, and the event takes place next Thursday at 11 a.m. Eastern / 8 a.m. Pacific.