Workplace Accommodations That Support Success

Resource Type: Workforce Support Resource

Availability: Ongoing

Best For: Apprenticeship participants, job seekers, employers, supervisors, mentors, and workforce professionals

Starting a new job, apprenticeship, or credential program can bring exciting opportunities. It can also present challenges that are not always visible. For individuals with disabilities, the right workplace accommodation can make the difference between simply participating and truly thriving.

Achieve Desk is highlighting one of the nation's most valuable workforce resources: the Job Accommodation Network (JAN), a free service supported by the U.S. Department of Labor.

What Is the Job Accommodation Network?

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provides free, confidential guidance to employees, job seekers, employers, educators, and workforce professionals regarding workplace accommodations and disability employment.

Whether someone is entering an apprenticeship, preparing for a credential exam, beginning a new job, or returning to work after an injury or illness, JAN helps identify practical solutions that support success in the workplace.

Their specialists answer questions about:

• Reasonable workplace accommodations

• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

• Disability disclosure in the workplace

• Assistive technology

• Accessibility solutions

• Job retention strategies

• Accommodation ideas for hundreds of medical conditions and disabilities

Because JAN's services are confidential, individuals can explore their options before deciding how they would like to communicate with an employer or training provider.

Why This Matters for Apprenticeship Participants

Many apprenticeship participants balance classroom instruction, hands-on training, employment responsibilities, and personal commitments. Sometimes a simple accommodation can remove unnecessary barriers and allow participants to demonstrate their true abilities.

Examples of accommodations may include:

• Flexible scheduling for medical appointments

• Screen readers or magnification software

• Voice recognition technology

• Ergonomic workstations

• Modified training materials

• Captioning or communication supports

• Alternative testing environments

• Adaptive tools or equipment

Every situation is unique. JAN helps individuals and employers identify accommodations that are both practical and effective.

Support for Employers and Mentors

Creating an inclusive workplace benefits everyone.

Employers, supervisors, mentors, and workforce partners can also contact JAN for guidance on:

• Responding to accommodation requests

• Understanding ADA responsibilities

• Supporting employee success

• Building accessible workplaces

• Retaining skilled employees

• Reducing barriers to participation

Many accommodations are inexpensive, and some require little or no financial investment while significantly improving productivity and employee engagement.

When Should You Reach Out?

One of the most important things to remember is that accommodation conversations do not have to wait until challenges become overwhelming.

If you believe an accommodation could support your success during:

• Credential training

• Apprenticeship instruction

• On-the-job learning

• Interviews

• Workplace onboarding

• Daily job responsibilities

  
  

Achieve Desk's Perspective

We believe workforce development should create opportunities for every learner to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and potential.

Successful careers are built by removing unnecessary barriers while maintaining high expectations. Access to accommodations helps participants focus on learning, contributing, and growing professionally.

Whether you are a participant preparing for your first career, an employer supporting a new apprentice, or a mentor helping someone navigate the workplace, resources like the Job Accommodation Network can provide valuable guidance throughout the journey.

Resource Snapshot

Organization: Job Accommodation Network (JAN)

Supported By: U.S. Department of Labor

Availability: Ongoing, year-round

Cost: Free and confidential

Ideal For: Apprentices, credential learners, employers, mentors, supervisors, workforce professionals, and job seekers

If you think a workplace accommodation could support your success, don't wait until difficulties arise. Reaching out early can help create a more accessible, productive, and successful training or employment experience for everyone involved.