On Oct. 5, Madison College Disability Resource Services launched the first of a four-part series of workshops aiding students with career approaches for their success.  

Scott Ritter, director of Disability Resource Services (DRS) and workshop organizer, believes that these workshops provide a transformative exploration of vital career and employment topics, all of which are tailored for Madison College students with disabilities. The primary goal of the workshops at DRS is “to impart knowledge that transcends conventional expectations.” DRS aims for attendees to gain not only practical skills but a deep self-awareness of their unique abilities, which extends beyond traditional career advice by providing insights into navigating diverse professional landscapes, fostering resilience and leveraging one’s distinctive strengths.  

“The advantages of attending these workshops extend far beyond conventional employment preparation,” said Ritter. “Participants not only acquire practical tools for job seeking but also become part of a supportive community.” 

Ritter shared that each workshop provides knowledge as a compass and guides students towards fulfilling purpose-driven careers that harness the individual’s full potential. The workshops, as a network, provide a source of encouragement, mentorship, and shared experiences, fostering a sense of belonging in a professional world in reverence to diversity. The benefits of attending the workshop include: 

• Participants who complete all four workshops will be eligible for a digital badge and will be halfway toward the prestigious “Career Readiness Program.”  
• Gain knowledge about navigating employment resource databanks like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ “Occupation Outlook Handbook.” 
• Opportunities to win money. Each participant who completes a workshop and submits the post-session survey will be eligible to win a gift card. 

The second workshop titled, “Resumes 101” offers help with building a great resume. The workshop provides insight regarding the caveats of “today’s competitive job market.” The goal of the second workshop is to guide individuals into highlighting their strengths, achievements and accomplishments that catch the attention of employers and eliminate unneeded information. ​ 

“These workshops are not merely about finding a job,” Ritter explained. “They’re about empowering individuals to redefine success on their terms, ensuring that the workplace of the future is one where every voice is heard, and every talent is recognized and valued.” 

The workshop series is part of a joint initiative by Disability Resource Services (DRS), TRIO, and Career and Employment Services (CES). Collaboratively, the team’s mission seeks to provide comprehensive support to students with disabilities in exploring a wide range of career opportunities and enhancing their skills through interactive workshops, encompassing; career exploration, resume writing, employment/disability rights and networking. ​ 

The next workshop is on Wed. Oct. 11 in room C 2455 at the Truax campus. Students are encouraged to bring laptops and pass on the information. As the director, Ritter hopes all who attend will walk away enlightened, empowered and ready to face the next steps wherever the individual’s career path takes them that will provide attendees with the tools to succeed.