President Obama signed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which replaces the outdated Workforce Investment Act of 1998, and includes a commitment to workforce development, especially connections between education and career preparation. VR’s increased role in transition, 15% set aside, pre-employment skills, postsecondary programs, and extended supported employment are just a few topics that will be discussed in this interactive session. Partnerships, service coordination, and “out of the box” thinking will be critical for successful implementation of this act. Success of the partnerships will be dependent on the expertise of educators, VR counselors, DD agencies, families, and other providers.
