The Project SEARCH Transition-to-Work Program is a unique, business-led, one-year academic employment preparation program that takes place entirely at the workplace (INTEGRIS or Mercy). Total workplace immersion facilitates a seamless combination of classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training through worksite rotations. The program culminates in individualized job search and placement.
This program is free to participate in and interns are not paid.
Train
Typical Day
- Program hours are 8 am - 3 pm, Monday-Friday, except for Francis Tuttle Holidays.
- Start: Interns begin each day in the classroom with a lesson.
- Middle: Interns work in their departments for approximately 5 hours with a 30-minute lunch break, which is taken in the cafeteria or department breakroom with their peers.
- End: Interns report back to the classroom for the last 30 minutes of the day for a wrap-up session
The Year
- The program runs from August to May and follows the Francis Tuttle School Calendar.
- Interns participate in 3 targeted internships, each lasting 10-12 weeks.
- Classroom lessons are taught each day on team building, self-advocacy, financial literacy, health and wellness, and many more essential life skills.
Employ
Throughout the year, the intern class will participate in industry tours within the community, providing an in-depth look at various types of employment across multiple industries. In the final few months of the program, interns work with their job developer to find employment that matches their interests and skills. Job developers will assist the intern in finding and applying for positions, prepping for and attending interviews, and following up with employers.
Support
When an intern finds and accepts employment, the job developer will assist with pre-employment paperwork and provide additional skill training (depending on the intern’s individual needs) on the job site during the first five days of employment. Follow up with the intern for the first 90 days of employment, providing help with accommodations and navigating the workplace, as necessary.
Eligibility Requirements
- High School Graduate
- 18-24 years old; cannot turn 25 during the program
- Have a diagnosed disability.
- Current client of or eligible for the Department of Rehabilitation Services.
- Have the ability to work independently for up to 5 hours.
- Have transportation to the program.
- AND
- Have a desire to obtain employment upon completion of the program.
- Be able to take direction from instructors, supervisors, and mentors.
- Be able to communicate effectively.
- Have appropriate personal hygiene and social skills.
Project SEARCH: Collaboration
Project SEARCH is a collaborative partnership between Francis Tuttle Technology Center and other agencies and institutions:
- Francis Tuttle Technology Center
- Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
- Dale Rogers Training Center
- National Center for Disability Education and Training
- INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center
- Mercy Hospital, Oklahoma City
Ready to take the Next Step?
Fill out the interest form, and an instructor will contact you.
- Ready to apply
Please email your completed application to: projectsearch@francistuttle.edu