Accessing a Pool of Skilled Workers
Businesses looking to maximize their bottom line and expand their pool of qualified workers recognize that individuals with disabilities represent a growing segment of the customer base as well as a highly skilled workforce.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was established to prevent discrimination and ensure equal opportunity through physical and policy accessibility standards. Workforce Solutions Panhandle provides the resources and local expertise to help your business navigate these requirements and capitalize on the talent available in our region.
Local Business Solutions: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services
Your primary local partner for inclusive hiring is the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Business Relations team. VR staff work directly with Panhandle employers to provide customized, no-fee services tailored to your specific industry.
Customized Employer Services:
- Recruiting and pre-screening qualified job seekers with disabilities to fill open positions
- On-site workplace assessments and job description reviews to identify and remove accessibility barriers
- Disability awareness training and “Etiquette in the Workplace” sessions for your staff
- Guidance on the “interactive process” for employee accommodation requests and retention
Connect with Local VR Staff: VR staff are conveniently co-located at our Amarillo Career Center:
- Address: 3120 Eddy St, Amarillo, TX 79106
- Phone: 806-372-5521
- Web: TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Business Relations — Resources and contact portals for Texas employers
Financial Incentives & Tax Credits
Hiring individuals with disabilities is a smart financial move. Several federal and state programs provide direct financial benefits to help offset costs and improve your bottom line.
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) — A federal tax credit available to employers for hiring individuals from certain target groups, including those with disabilities
- Disabled Access Credit (IRS Section 44) — Helping small businesses cover expenditures for ADA-related access, including barrier removal and adaptive equipment
- Architectural Barrier Removal Tax Deduction — A tax deduction for businesses of any size to help offset the cost of removing physical and transportation barriers
- Texas HireAbility — A statewide campaign highlighting the business case for disability inclusion and recognizing “We Hire Ability” employers
Workplace Accommodations & Expertise
Most accommodations are low-cost and result in high employee retention. Use these expert resources to find practical solutions for your workplace:
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN) — The gold standard for free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment law
- Accommodation Cost vs. Benefit Data — Research showing that most accommodations have zero cost or are a one-time expense of $500 or less
- Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN) — A free resource helping employers recruit, hire, retain, and advance people with disabilities
- JAN Searchable Online Accommodation Resource (SOAR) — An interactive tool to explore accommodation options based on specific functional limitations
ADA Compliance & Technical Assistance
Navigating legal requirements ensures your business is accessible to customers and employees while minimizing legal risk.
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Access to Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) and compliance information for construction projects with costs exceeding $50,000
- Southwest ADA Center — The region’s leading resource for ADA technical assistance, training, and confidential inquiries via their hotline at 800-949-4232
- ADA Business Connection — Access to publications, practical tips, and strategies for marketing to customers with disabilities
Contact Our Staff
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Sarah Barnes
Phillip Flores
Shannon Rowell
