Through innovative programs and initiatives, Deborah Copeland and her team are transforming the employment landscape for people with disabilities.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK / ACCESSWIRE / October 22, 2024 / Through employment initiatives and training programs, Deborah Copeland and her team at Dale Rogers Training Center are leading Oklahoma toward a disability-inclusive workforce.
Executive/Director and CEO
Throughout her career in the nonprofit space, Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., has witnessed major shifts in opportunities for adults living with disabilities. The most recent, Employment First-meaning employment should be the first and preferred option for people living with disabilities-is designed to provide the support people living with disabilities need to join the workforce with the same opportunities as their peers. As an Employment First state since 2015, Oklahoma has been making strides, but there is still progress to be made. Leading the way is Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), where 64% of employees identify as having a disability.
"Our mission is to promote a more disability-inclusive workforce across Oklahoma," says Copeland, executive director and CEO of DRTC. "In every workplace, in every corner of the community, people living with disabilities deserve full access to employment opportunities."
Founded in 1953, DRTC offers paid vocational training and in-house programs tailored to people's needs and strengths. For example, the Employment Services Program matches individuals to job openings based on their employment goals and provides on-the-job training until an employee is effectively prepared for the role. Through SourceAmerica®, DRTC maintains federal employment contracts in the custodial and food service industries. In 2023 alone, people with disabilities earned $6.2 million through DRTC's programs.
"Investing in disability inclusion is not only beneficial for people with disabilities but the community as a whole," says Copeland. "In Oklahoma, about 30% of people who do not participate in the workforce have a disability. These are people with great values and great motivation who don't have access to employment, so we need to make sure every workplace is accessible."
Empowerment in Action
According to 2023 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 8.4% of people living with a disability are self-employed versus just 5.9% of those with no disability. The Hub Business Incubator Program, an initiative at DRTC currently in early development, will provide support and training for people living with a disability who want to become entrepreneurs. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop their business plan and network with professionals during a 10-day workshop. They will be provided with an analysis on how viable their business, product, or service may be, and long-term support and mentorship will help candidates be more successful.
In the coming years, DRTC is looking to create more employment opportunities for people living with disabilities and serve as a resource to the community, policymakers, and employers alike. Copeland and her team approach every decision with an eye on empowerment.
"I love the work we do," says Copeland. "We have a saying at DRTC: ‘Employment makes you the hero of your own life.' Every day, I see folks find employment, and they change their own lives. They may buy a car, get married, or contribute to their household income. Employment opens the door for people to write their own story."
"Employment makes you the hero of your own life."
- Deborah Copeland, Executive Director and CEO
Want to help create a more inclusive workforce? Discover how Dale Rogers Training Center is making a difference in Oklahoma. Visit DRTC.org or call 405-946-4889 to learn more about our programs and initiatives.
Address: 2501 North Utah Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Phone Number: 405-946-4889
Website: DRTC.org
Contact Information
Deborah Copeland
Executive Director and CEO
405-946-4889
SOURCE: Dale Rogers Training Center
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