Modern Job Coach Training

Since the early days of supported employment, job coaching has been a significant tool in assisting workers with disabilities on the job. However, it has also become mired in a lack of ingenuity. Employers for instance have told us that the job coaching approach we use has some flaws. In focus groups, employers have stated that providers should focus on the development of highly-qualified, well-trained job coaches, not just “warm bodies that sit around the job site.” In addition, employers stated: “Providers should focus on strategies that decrease (fade) the role of the job coach while meeting the needs of employers.” Fortunately, in addition to quality improvement insights from businesses regarding job coaching, several studies including a fidelity scale have been deployed over the last several years that provide a framework for improving the job coaching services to both workers and their employers. In this three-part series, we will delve into the functional changes that can be made to bring this important service into the 21st century. Topics to be covered: Evidence-based approaches, Fidelity and Consultative Training and Supports, Natural supports made purposeful, Paid co-worker supports, and Technology and job coaching. Each zoom is 90 minutes long and is intended to be interactive. A pre-test and post-test will be utilized for trainees. All staff that complete the sessions and score a passing grade will receive a certificate of completion and opportunity for continuing education and access to further training and technical assistance. You must be a provider of employment services in Georgia and must have completed ACRE training to register. The next training dates are TBD.