Big Sky Times

Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras addressed the second annual Disability Employment Conference at the Great Falls College Heritage Hall today. "This conference is an excellent opportunity for Montana businesses to learn from experts about the value of employing individuals with disabilities," Lt. Gov. Juras said. "There is a substantial talent pool in Montana already working, and many more who are eager to find employment."

Chanda Hermanson of the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Disability Employment and Transitions Division (DETD) stated that Montana businesses are very supportive of hiring individuals with disabilities. "This conference provides Montana businesses with information related to the value of hiring individuals with disabilities and how to support behavioral health in today's workforce," Hermanson said.

Conference participants are learning about various topics including the value of hiring people with disabilities, promoting mental health in the workplace, supporting employee wellness, integrating assistive technology, and utilizing artificial intelligence (AI). Discussions on service animals and changes in labor laws are also part of the agenda.

A total of 75 participants from 43 organizations have registered for this year's conference. The Harkin Institute gave a presentation on Wednesday on Competitive Integrated Employment. The presenters discussed how businesses that create an inclusive work environment for persons with disabilities can be more innovative, have greater profitability, and enjoy long-term market opportunities. They further explained how such businesses create societal value by embracing disability inclusion.

As DETD administrator, Hermanson oversees the Vocational Rehabilitation and Blind Services (VRBS) program which connects individuals with disabilities to employment opportunities and equips them for success. VRBS counselors work closely with businesses to find qualified candidates, solve accessibility issues, provide consultation on transportation-related matters, and deliver training on disability inclusion.

"We support businesses with a wide array of services, resources, and solutions related to disability employment," Hermanson said. "We also provide no-cost assistance with recruiting skilled candidates, retaining staff, increasing accessibility, and accessing other resources that can save time and money."

Approximately 79,000 Montanans aged between 18-64 have disabilities. This population is divided among 35,000 individuals who are not in the labor force and 41,000 who are employed. The remaining 3,000 are in the labor force but currently unemployed.

"Our goal is to ensure Montanans of all abilities have the opportunity to reach their full potential as members of our state's community, workforce, and economy," Hermanson concluded. The conference will conclude on Thursday, May 16.