In today’s highly-competitive workforce, finding a quality job can be a challenge. For individuals with disabilities, the competition is even more extreme, but there are some positive changes on the horizon. Career opportunities are greater than they have ever been for individuals with disabilities. This is largely credited to the ADA, which helps accommodate people with disabilities and works to prevent discrimination within the workforce.
Here are a few great options for those with disabilities to claim a spot on the workforce.
Working From Home
From jobs as writers, salespersons or teachers through online courses, people with disabilities have a wide variety of options available when it comes to working from home. There are also excellent opportunities for teaching gigs outside the home, as most schools are very wheelchair-friendly.
Working in Finance
Accounting and financial jobs are viable career paths for those that need mobility help as office buildings have become more and more accessible throughout the years. Ernest & Young was listed as number one on Diversity Inc.’s “Top 10 Companies for People With Disabilities” list. Also on the list was the Hardfort Financial Services Group.
Working with Computers
Another great option for a career is one involving computers. This Internet and electronic age is booming. With more demand for people that are technologically savvy comes more prospects for job seekers. IBM is not only another one of the top employers for candidates with disabilities but also a leader in computer technology. Computer systems analysts and software developers usually require a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences or a similar field, but technical vocation jobs are available for those without related degrees and require less schooling.
Legal Careers
The legal world is another field that is accommodating for mobility assistance. Being a lawyer for those who share your disabilities may even be your niche. There are many other options for a legal career such as being a legal secretary, paralegal or legal assistant, all of which require certification but do not necessarily require a degree.
Government Jobs
Lastly, the government is a great employer for people with disabilities. Since the 1980s, federal employment has remained at 7 percent. More information on finding a government job can be found here.
Where to Find your Career
The easiest place to start looking today is on online job boards. While there are many job boards to choose from, GettingHired.com accommodates people with disabilities by providing special search filters. Other sites such as RecruitDisability.org and AbilityJobs.org are dedicated specifically to accessible jobs for those with disabilities.
No matter where you start your search, it’s important to get out there and jump into the job hunt, knowing that the ADA, and yourself, can demand the necessary accommodations for equal opportunity in the workforce.
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The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our mobility equipment dealers.