AccessSTEM CAREERS

Logo for Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation

AccessSTEM CAREERS, a DO-IT project funded by the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation, promotes STEM fields to students with disabilities in the Seattle area and works with career centers at local colleges to make their offerings welcoming and accessible to students with disabilities. Project partners include the University of Washington, Bellevue College, and the Seattle Community College District.

Discover how to replicate this project and its activities here.

Read AccessSTEM CAREERS' article Mentors Matter: Youth with Disabilities and the Pursuit of STEM.

Project Activities for Students with Disabilities

At the University of Washington and at partner colleges, students engage in the following activities.

  • STEM Career Development Workshops. This monthly series of workshops include a visit to a STEM research lab, a resume-writing workshop, student competitions, hands-on engagement with assistive technology, and exploration of resources.
  • Work-Based Learning. Students engage with mentors in mock interviews, job shadows, internships, and other work-based learning activities.
  • Online Mentoring and Peer Support. Students engage in an online community supporting the pursuit of STEM careers.

Students interested in participating in similar activities are encouraged to apply for the AccessSTEM Team.

Project Activities for Employers

Employer mentors address student questions and interests regarding career development, STEM academic programs, internships, and labor market trends. They have access to student resumes, learn about good candidates for internships and jobs, and host work-based learning experiences.

Project Activities for Postsecondary Career Centers

Career counselors will engage in professional development and online discussions about making career services welcoming and accessible to students with disabilities. Student leaders will help career counselors conduct accessibility reviews of career center facilities, products, and services.

For information about participation or to join AccessSTEM CAREERS, email doit@uw.edu or call 206-685-3648 (v/TTY).