What does vocational rehabilitation job training involve?

I'm considering vocational rehabilitation as a pathway after high school and want to know more about the job training they offer. What skills can I gain, and how does the training prepare me for the workforce?

Vocational rehabilitation (VR) job training typically involves providing individuals with the necessary skills, education, and resources needed to enter or re-enter the workforce. The training is often customized to meet the specific needs of the individual and their career aspirations.

Generally speaking, there are five main aspects involved in VR job training:

1. Assessment and Planning: This initial stage is to evaluate the individual's skills, interests, and capabilities. This helps in developing an individualized plan for employment (IPE), which outlines the individual's career goals and the steps needed to reach those goals.

2. Skill Development: Based on the IPE, training is designed to enhance or acquire new skills needed for a certain job. This could involve on-the-job training, technical training programs, apprenticeships, or higher education (college or university). The objective is to gain the professional skills and qualifications necessary to compete in the job market.

3. Soft Skills Training: This focuses on fostering interpersonal and workplace readiness skills—things like communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork. Soft skills are often critical in maintaining employment and advancing in a career.

4. Work Experience: VR programs may facilitate internships, job shadowing, or part-time jobs that offer real-world work experience in your field of interest. These experiences can help you apply what you've learned in training, build a network of professional contacts, and enhance your resume.

5. Job Search and Placement Assistance: VR programs often include workshops that teach job-search techniques—how to write a resume, effective interview skills—as well as provide personalized job placement support to match individuals with suitable job openings.

Remember, the specifics can vary based on the VR program and the individual's career goals but the ultimate aim is to achieve meaningful, competitive employment.

Additionally, support usually continues even after job placement, with check-ins to ensure an individual is adjusting well to their new job, and to provide ongoing training and resources as needed. In a nutshell, VR job training is not merely about gaining technical skills, but a comprehensive package to prepare you for the workforce and assist you in maintaining employment.