Updates from Michigan Rehabilitation Services: April 2023

Autism Acceptance Month is celebrated each April to foster acceptance and inspire Michiganders to work together to create a more welcoming and inclusive state for all.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is the fastest growing developmental disability in the U.S., affecting more than five million people, per recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention surveillance estimates. Youth with autism have been identified as the primary emerging population of individuals with a disability in Michigan that is either currently or predicted to be underserved.

Symptoms and characteristics of autism can vary significantly from one individual to the next and may result in significant, lifelong challenges in areas of learning, social-interactive behaviors and understanding verbal as well as nonverbal communication. Acceptance and inclusion are key to an individual’s independence in their community. Many individuals with autism possess and learn exceptional skills and talents valuable to the business community.

Many state departments and community providers have resources for individuals with autism, ranging from identification and diagnosis, to support, training and intervention. While treatments and education for children are critical towards improving outcomes for this population, eventually, individualized and customized support, comprehensive training and better advocacy and outreach strategies are needed to obtain, maintain and advance employment opportunities.

Discover the mission and resources of Autism Alliance of Michigan by visiting AutismAllianceOfMichigan.org. Explore the vocational rehabilitation services provided to people with autism by Michigan Rehabilitation Services, within LEO’s Office of Employment and Training, by visiting Michigan.gov/MRS. You can also learn more about how the Michigan Departments of Education and Health and Human Services support individuals with autism by visiting MDE’s Special Education website or Michigan.gov/Autism.

Beginning last month, the Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) was available for exploration on Pathfinder, Michigan’s free, online career exploration tool. MCTI provides vocational training and technical training programs to help prepare individuals with disabilities to enter the job market. 

The integration of MCTI’s 13 programs in nine fields of study in Pathfinder allows you to explore the programs offered at the school. Head to Pathfinder.MiTalent.org and find MCTI while searching for schools in southwest Michigan or when searching occupations or fields of study offered at MCTI.

The Pathfinder career exploration tool helps you create personalized roadmaps based on your desired school or field of study. You'll also able to create multiple roadmaps to compare the different paths to help determine what works best for you!

There's been a lot of buzz in recent months about the automotive mobility and electrification industry – and many career seekers are wondering how they can get involved. That’s where the EV Jobs Academy comes in!

The Michigan Electric Vehicle Jobs Academy (EV Jobs Academy) supports the careers of tomorrow, today. This new state-led collaborative is developing education and training solutions to meet the advanced automotive mobility and electrification industry’s talent needs.

With more than 100 partners including employers, industry stakeholders and education institutions, the EV Jobs Academy is driving the state’s advanced mobility talent development for the future.

Through the EV Jobs Academy, participants can receive assistance with tuition and supportive services, including “earn while you learn” opportunities through Registered Apprenticeship. Learn more at Michigan.gov/EVJobsAcademy. 

The Michigan Veterans' Employment Services (VES) team helps eligible veterans and their spouses secure meaningful employment. 

Veterans face many challenges when transitioning out of the military – finding meaningful employment should not be one of them.

The all veteran team operates out of Michigan Works! Service Centers located throughout the state and provides one-on-one customized assistance that helps reduce or eliminate barriers to employment.

If you or a loved one is a veteran looking for work, stop by your local Michigan Works! Service Center or go to Michigan.gov/VES for more information.