Employment Preparation and
Skills Support (EPASS)

Our mission is to challenge the status quo, embrace innovation, and create meaningful, lasting impact through everything we do.

A professional woman smiles as she engages in a conversation with a colleague across a desk in a bright, modern office. The image reflects the supportive and interactive approach of the EPASS curriculum, which helps young people build job readiness skills like resume writing, interviewing, and workplace communication.

Curriculum

The 30-session curriculum focuses on building job readiness skills such as goal setting, resume and cover letter creation, job interviews, disability disclosure and accommodations, and onboarding for the first day on the job. Through interactive sessions, EPASS prepares young people to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.

Program Focus Areas

Career Readiness: Explore job interests, build a personal brand, write resumes and cover letters, and practice interview and networking skills.

Workplace Success: Learn professional behaviors like time management, workplace etiquette, and managing first-day expectations, paychecks, and work-life balance.

Self-Advocacy and Inclusion: Understand disability rights, how to request accommodations, and strategies for fostering inclusive, supportive work environments.

EPASS is delivered using a manualized, interactive approach supported by technology, videos, and hands-on learning. Participants practice these skills in group settings with peers, using role-playing, discussion, and feedback to build confidence and real-world competence.

EPASS in Community

EPASS program has being implemented through partnerships across Michigan to support high school students, court-involved youth, and others preparing for the workforce. Collaborations include:

Early Pilot Studies

  • Sung, C., Connor, A., Strain, A., & Nasamran, A. (in review). Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an employment-readiness intervention for transition-age individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
  • Sung, C., Okyere, C., Connor, A., & Chen, J. (2024). Lived experiences and perceptions of autistic young adults participating in employment readiness skills training. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-024-06527-8

Funding Acknowledgment

  • U.S. Department of Education
  • European Union – Marie Skłodowska – Curie Actions