Program Creates Pathways to Competitive Employment for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Imagine Technical Institute (ITI)—a nonprofit that empowers adults with disabilities—has partnered with CoxHealth to launch the region’s first vocational training program for individuals with intellectual and developmental challenges. This initiative marks a significant step toward creating more inclusive employment opportunities in the greater Springfield area.

Led by an ITI instructor, the six-week course is designed to prepare students for full-time employment as members of CoxHealth’s Food and Nutrition Services team. Participants will receive hands-on training in food preparation, cart delivery and pick-up, condiment stocking, and other essential culinary tasks. In addition, students will develop vital soft skills, including workplace expectations, communication, teamwork, and financial planning.

“This inaugural program has been nine months in the making, and we are so excited to begin making our impact,” said ITI Director of Competitive Employment Andy Dominguez. “We have two more training programs in the works, but this one being first says a lot about CoxHealth and its commitment to inclusive hiring.”

ITI has openings for two students in this inaugural class. The program will run four hours daily for six weeks at Cox Medical Center Branson, 525 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, Mo. Upon completing the course and all other pre-hiring requirements, graduates can apply for full-time or part-time positions with a starting salary of $15.25 per hour plus benefits.

“We are excited to support this initiative and look forward to the incredible contributions these graduates will make to our team,” said Jesse Baedke, CoxHealth Administrative Director of Food Services. “Programs like this underscore our dedication to fostering a more inclusive community.”

ITI’s training programs focus on competitive integrated employment, ensuring that graduates work alongside non-disabled colleagues, earning equal pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement. All ITI courses are accredited by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. ITI is also accredited by CARF International, ensuring high service quality and satisfaction standards.

“If you or someone you know lives with a disability and is interested in a career in the culinary field, this program could be life-changing,” added Dominguez. “Apply online today and take the first step toward a rewarding and meaningful career.”

For more information or to apply, visit https://imaginejobs.org.

ITI receives funding from CC Links and Developmental Connections, public taxing entities that contract with agencies serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

About Imagine Technical Institute

Founded in 2023, Imagine Technical Institute (ITI) is a vocational training and employment services provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in southwest Missouri. Working in collaboration with Boone Center, Inc. in St. Peters, Mo., ITI empowers people with disabilities to find and retain jobs in our local community, working alongside non-disabled individuals while earning the same opportunities, benefits, and pay. ITI is the dream of Hollister native Tim Connell. His passion for creating a school for people with disabilities developed as he volunteered for disability-related organizations following his son’s Autism diagnosis in 1995. ITI partners with local businesses to co-create training programs. For more information, contact ITI’s Director of Competitive Employment, Andy Dominguez, at (417) 240-7630 or andy@imaginejobs.org.