AutismUp’s ACCES-VR Services help individuals gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive after high school and in the workplace. From transition planning for families to hands-on job readiness and career exploration, our programs open doors to independence and meaningful opportunities.
We are committed to supporting individuals as they navigate the workforce, from building job readiness skills to finding fulfilling career opportunities. Our services are designed to empower individuals to succeed and thrive in the workplace, with personalized guidance and practical tools to help them unlock their potential.
AutismUp is an approved provider of ACCES-VR Pre-Employment Services as follows. Please contact Sean Beard at sbeard@autismup.org or Jeanne Ricigliano at jricigliano@autismup.org.
Our Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) help students with disabilities explore careers, build job skills, and gain confidence as they prepare for life after high school. Through hands-on experience, coaching, and guidance, participants develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in school, work, and beyond.
Self-Advocacy
Build confidence to speak up in school, work, and life. Learn your rights, request accommodations, disclose a disability when needed, and plan for life after high school.
Ideal for: High school or college students.
Post-Secondary Counseling
Plan for life after graduation. Explore colleges, training programs, and funding options; complete applications; and create a personalized transition portfolio.
Ideal for: Juniors, seniors, and recent grads.
Job Exploration Counseling
Discover career interests and strengths through assessments, job research, and shadowing. Understand workplace accommodations and set career goals.
Ideal for: High-school or transition-age students.
Work Readiness Training
Hands-on prep for employment: professional communication, teamwork, time management, resume and interview skills, plus workplace health & safety.
Ideal for: Students preparing for jobs, internships, or vocational training.
Work-Based Learning Experience (Fall/Winter Internships)
Eight-week, 10-hours/week internships in community businesses with job-coach support.
Community-Based Work Assessments
One-on-one, 20-hour real-world evaluations to gauge job readiness and needed accommodations. Conducted at local partner sites.
Adult Employment programs help individuals with disabilities gain real-world experience, explore career paths, and build essential workplace skills. From internships and assessments to work readiness training, participants get the guidance and support they need to succeed on the job.
Work Experience Development (Internships)
Two 8-week sessions (Oct–Dec & Jan–Mar), 10 hours/week. Gain supervised experience at local businesses.
Community-Based Work Assessments (Adults)
Individual 20-hour assessments in real job settings to identify skills, support, and next steps for employment.
Career Exploration Assessment
Interest and aptitude testing, labor-market research, and job-shadowing opportunities to clarify career direction.
Work Readiness Training (Adults)
Same practical workplace skills as the student course—professional communication, time management, resumes, interviews—tailored for adults entering or re-entering the workforce.
Contact our Work Readiness Program Director, Sean Beard, with questions at sbeard@autismup.org.