abilIT graduates since the program's inception*
Average hourly wage of people placed in jobs from this program
Training is offered at no cost to program participants
*FY2024 Figures
Residency requirements
Funding
Referrals accepted?
When his old job was no longer challenging him, Nathan enrolled in Melwood’s abilIT program and changed his life. The 14-week program pairs highly technical training with soft skills and helps participants build lifelong careers in the IT and tech sectors.
Through the program, Nathan was introduced to Enabled Intelligence (EI), a global leader in mission-critical AI data solutions for the US Defense and Intelligence Community. Nathan participated in EI’s Geospatial Data Labeling bootcamp where he learned the data labeling needs of the defense and intelligence community.
During the class, Nathan also learned other skills that would be valuable in helping him thrive in a work environment. “They started off with more of a classroom setup, basically giving a presentation on working in an office environment, working with others, and knowing how to take notes,” he said.
Gaining additional critical technical and soft skills needed in the growing AI industry, Nathan now works full-time at EI supporting the needs of the federal government as an AI data analyst while also building a life that he loves.
Nathan said he enjoys being able to use the skills he has developed to make a difference in protecting national security. “Having a computer be able to tell us that something is happening that we otherwise couldn’t have known of, could really change some things in the course of national security.”
Fifteen years ago, Anthony’s life was turned upside down. “I got sick. Then I had to be put on emergency dialysis,” he said. “I was depressed. I didn’t know what to do because I was married with a child. And I had to consider, how do I provide for them now that I’m sick?”
Anthony’s search for a way forward eventually led him to Melwood’s abilIT program. Combining technical training with soft-skills development, abilIT provides participants with a pathway to meaningful employment and a brighter future. For Anthony, it became a lifeline and a chance to rebuild his life.
“I knew if I had my certifications, I could start my life all over again,” Anthony said.
Through the program, Anthony earned IT certifications and gained skills and confidence. He hopes to one day run his own cybersecurity business. “I want to help others along the way, build them up just like I was built up through the abilIT program,” he said.
Anthony’s story shows the transformative power of abilIT, demonstrating how programs like this can turn adversity into opportunity. With the right support, individuals like Anthony can overcome challenges, pursue their dreams, and create a positive impact on others.
For more than 60 years, Melwood has been building a bridge to a more supportive world. Today, we are one of the nation’s leading advocates, employers, and providers for people with disabilities and their caregivers.
