Research Project
Evaluation of Aspire’s Employment Training Program
Aspire’s federally funded Employment Training Program provides young adults with disabilities real-world job experience in growing fields, and this study evaluates its effectiveness, participant outcomes, and potential to expand into a scalable job training model for other settings.
- Principal Investigator
- Hsieh, Kelly
- Co-Principal Investigator
- Heller, Tamar
- Start Date
- 2025-05-01
- End Date
- 2029-11-01
- Research Area(s)
- Active Projects
- DHD Research
- Disability
- Entrepreneurship and Employment
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
- Co-Investigators
- Hasnain, Rooshey
- Funding Source
- Aspire of IL
Abstract
Aspire’s federally funded Employment Training Program prepares young adults with disabilities for competitive employment by providing real-world work experience in high-growth industries. This evaluation study examines how effectively the program builds job-related skills and supports positive employment outcomes. Surveys and interviews with trainees capture their experiences and perspectives, while Aspire job coaches complete pre- and post-training skill assessments to measure growth. Findings will inform program improvement, support future planning, meet federal reporting requirements, and guide the development of a scalable job training model that can be adapted across industries and settings. https://aspire.ahs.uic.edu/