IT Accessibility Review
Volume 1, Number 12
Workforce Solutions
ManTech Information Systems & Technology have joined forces with TecAccess to train disabled veterans. TecAccess, an award-winning accessibility and workforce solutions company, has developed a program for training disabled veterans returning from the Global War on Terror (GWOT). This program will use Assistive Technology (AT) such as screen readers and voice activated controls for one-of-a-kind training opportunities. DVET is the first of its kind program in the nation and is unique in that it:
- Prepares disabled veterans to use computer technology at the basic level for purposes of email, word processing, and other knowledge-worker skills.
- Prepares disabled veterans at a secondary and tertiary level for a successful career in technical and knowledge-based fields (e.g., information technology, intelligence, security, and financial planning).
- Once a specified curriculum is completed, the program further provides a guaranteed job at the end of the program.
ManTech hiring manager, Michael Schwartz (Department of Justice JCON Civil Help Desk) and TecAccess Vice President, Dennis Stone, have developed a training curriculum for Tier I Help Desk Technicians but anticipate this is only a footprint into a program which will open up future opportunities to train and employee our veterans in other more advanced IT positions.
The outcome of the DVET training program ultimately benefits both the disabled veteran and the hiring organization by empowering disabled veterans to leverage their unique and newly marketable qualifications. Organizations who hire newly trained veterans are finding that disabled veterans are loyal employees and are self-motivated, intelligent, and hardworking.
Despite newly acquired disabilities, this pool of potential employees have already demonstrated their willingness to persevere under difficult circumstances and are therefore well prepared to excel in the workplace. Research has shown that veterans with disabilities are more loyal and productive employees, and they highly value their jobs and the opportunity they have been given to make a difference. What the employer gains in return is access to unique skill sets and qualifications.
For more information on TecAccess and the DVET program, please visit www.tecaccess.net/VetAccess/vetaccess.shtml.
