Work-Ready ABE Training & Paid Internship
Training Program: Empower Pathways
Pathways Title: Work-Ready ABE Training & Internship
Supervision Provided By: Director of Affirmative Business Enterprise; Director of Programs
Reviewed: June 2025
Program Description: The Work-Ready ABE Training and Internship Program at Workshops Empowerment Inc. is designed to provide time-limited, paid training opportunities for individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Participants engage in job readiness, skill training, and structured, hands-on learning experiences while earning a paycheck. The goal is to build foundational skills, confidence, and readiness for transition into competitive, integrated employment in the community.
Program Features & Supports
- Earn While You Learn: Participants are paid during their internship, gaining both income and valuable workplace experience.
- Hands-On Skill Development: Training includes equipment operation, quality control, safety practices, and general production/processing techniques.
- Individualized Coaching: Staff provide direct supervision, feedback, and skill-building support to ensure success.
- Career Preparation: Participants learn work readiness, communication, and problem-solving skills that support future job placement.
- Networking & Exposure: Opportunities are provided to connect with employers, industry professionals, and community partners.
- Next-Step Opportunities: Upon completion, participants may transition into community-based internships or direct job placement with local employers.
Participant Eligibility
- Open to individuals with disabilities and other barriers to employment.
- No prior experience required.
- Must be motivated, coachable, reliable, and committed to attending training sessions consistently.
Training Details
- Length of Training: Time-limited (typically 8–12 weeks depending on individual needs).
- Schedule: Hours vary and are determined in advance with program staff.
- Environment: Training takes place in a supervised production setting that is safe, accessible, and supportive.
- Accommodations: Reasonable accommodations are provided to support success.
Participant Protections and Benefits: All participants are considered trainees and receive wages during the training period. Workshops Empowerment Inc. provides Social Security and Worker’s Compensation coverage to ensure safe and fair participation.
Application Process: To learn more or apply, contact Human Resources at 205-592-9683 or
[email protected]. Our team will guide you through the process and answer any questions.
Important Note: This is a training and internship program. It is not a permanent employment position. The program is designed to prepare participants for competitive community employment with outside employers following completion.
Typical Working Conditions: Individuals work in a reasonably clean, indoor production environment under supervision. There is continuous contact with staff and co-workers of various abilities. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Workshops Empowerment Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
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