The National Center for Disability Education and Training fosters a culture of diversity by encouraging and supporting organizations and businesses that recognize the value and talents persons with disabilities bring to the workplace and implement flexible and inclusive workplace practices. Disability is a natural part of being disabled, and businesses can benefit by taking steps to ensure people with disabilities are included in their workforce.

The mission of the National Center for Disability Education and Training (NCDET) is to promote the inclusion and equal participation of persons with disabilities in our community. NDCET prepares a diverse workforce by providing training and building capacity. NCDET is funded by state contracts and federal grants to develop, administer, and provide training for the funded projects. These funds provide services to businesses and persons with disabilities by paving the way to employment in Oklahoma. We want to educate and help employers and employees benefit from a work environment that facilitates the retention of all skilled, qualified workers through adequate job accommodations for employees with disabilities.

NCDET supports and trains businesses to recognize the workplace practices they can adapt to include people with disabilities that will promote an inclusive workplace. This program is provided and funded by the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma (DCO).

Through a grant from the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (OKDRS), NCDET administers the Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Program for youth with disabilities ages 14 to 21. The program served over 10,000 youth across Oklahoma to prepare them for their future post-high school. All Pre-ETS activities focus on Job Exploration, Work-Based Learning, Workplace Readiness, Self-Advocacy, and Post-Secondary Counseling.

Each summer, the Pre-ETS specialists work with teachers, counselors, and (OKDRS staff to host BEST Camps for youth ages 16 to 21 who are ready to Build Employment Skills for Today (BEST). Over thirty BEST Camps took place across Oklahoma during June and July 2022, and camp graduates also had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Transition Employment Program (STEP), which offered them a four-week paid internship with a community business.

Project SEARCH™ (funded by OKDRS) is a Transition-to-Work model. This program involves collaboration and partnership with the community and the partner businesses. It provides real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent-living skills to help young people with disabilities make successful transitions to productive adult life. There are currently ten Project SEARCH Programs, and successful employment rates vary from 75-85%.

Oklahoma Work Incentives and Planning and Assistance (OWIPA) is funded by the Social Security Administration. This program enables beneficiaries with disabilities to receive accurate information and use that information to make a successful transition to work. Community Work Incentives Coordinators provide in-depth counseling about benefits and the effect of work on their benefits.

Testimonials:

"I just wanted to brag on some students. I have spent time with each of them every day, and just observed them doing their jobs. They are doing incredibly well. They all love working and have been so eager to work. I have gotten nothing but positive feedback from their supervisors. What an incredible experience this has been for everyone involved!" - Job Coach Shawnee-Tecumseh BEST Camp.

"I think this program works on every level and works on each student's individual abilities. The activities are broken down in a way that keeps their attention. The students enjoyed themselves." – McAlester SPED Teacher.

"I'm just so happy that I get to come here every day and learn how to prepare for my future and be with my friends!" – Student.

"I knew this would be a really good experience for me, but I had no idea I'd have so much fun too!" – Student.

"BEST Camp is helping me be more than just me." – Student.

"I liked this camp a lot. It taught me a lot of things that will help me get a job. I got to see old friends and make new ones. I also liked seeing Emeka's car that is adapted to him. It has helped me to understand how I can have a car adapted to my needs." – Student.