Employment Transition Services

Our Brilliant Futures program provides innovative community employment opportunities to help ensure a successful transition from school to the workplace. This program is for students between the ages of 14 and 21 who receive educational services under an Individual Education Plan. We collaborate with school districts, teachers, parents, counties, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services counselors to develop transition services tailored to each student’s employment and transition needs.

We provide services that help students gain the skills, confidence, and professional experiences needed to develop rewarding and successful careers. Brilliant Futures programs include the following community employment and career exploration opportunities:

Career Exploration – Paid Job Tryouts

We tailor Job Tryouts to meet the employment goals of each student. Job Tryouts are coordinated with businesses to provide the student an experience in a work environment while completing a specific task. Our job coaches work with students to develop the skills necessary to complete job tasks and help students progress into independent workers. Students are evaluated throughout the Job Tryout and can learn if they truly enjoy a specific job and if they are a viable candidate for the job. Students are paid minimum wage while participating in Job Tryouts.

Job Coaching

We ensure students are successful by working side-by-side at the job site. We help the student understand the job culture and identify natural supports on the job. Our staff also train employers and coworkers on understanding any accommodations needed by student.

Job Development and Placement

We meet with each student to produce their job placement plan. Our staff help students develop career goals by creating a profile that highlights their skills, interests, strengths, preferences, and resources. With our guidance, students complete applications, update resumes, develop cover letters, and compose thank you letters. We help students indentify and contact employers, and we provide support services once the student is hired.

Organizational Employment Services

Students develop job skills on-site at Functional Industries. They work with a para-professional providing oversight and quality control or work directly with Functional Industries staff. Students learn how to complete packaging and assembly jobs and to develop “soft” skills. Soft skills include appropriate dress for the work place, punctuality, how to get along with co-workers and supervisors, self-motivation, and work place culture and procedures. Students are paid a piece rate for work performed.