Evidence to Employment: Transition Research in Action

In this episode of Evidence to Employment, host Carolyn Cage speaks with Dr. Paul Wehman about the critical role of supported employment and paid work experience for transition-age youth with disabilities. Dr. Wehman highlights groundbreaking research from the VCU-RRTC, emphasizing that paid internships and real-world jobs during high school are the strongest predictors of long-term career success. The conversation covers six diverse research studies aimed at underserved groups—including Native American youth, foster youth, and those involved in the justice system—with the goal of creating a "seamless" pathway from school to the workforce. Ultimately, Dr. Wehman argues that while the "paradigm shift" proving these individuals can work has already happened, the next great challenge is ensuring that families, teachers, and counselors have the training and information they need to turn that potential into reality.

In this episode, host Carolyn Cage sits down with Dr. Paul Wehman, a pioneering leader whose work helped shape supported employment and transition services for youth with disabilities. Dr. Wehman reflects on his personal journey, the early days of supported employment, and the many colleagues and mentors who influenced his path. He walks listeners through key milestones—from the Education for All Handicapped Children Act to the rise of supported employment, the ADA, and Medicaid waiver funding—that transformed opportunities for people with disabilities. Together, they explore how decades of innovation, advocacy, and collaboration continue to redefine what meaningful work can look like for all.