Tech Careers Start Here
Empowering people with disabilities to launch careers in IT and cybersecurity—at no cost to them. abilIT provides training, support, and connections to inclusive employers.
participants
program completion
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About the Program
abilIT is a 14-week training program that combines IT certifications, soft skills, and job search support to help participants succeed in tech careers.
GRANT PARTNERS
Grant partners collaborate with Melwood through a Department of Education funded initiative, offering expertise and strategic support to expand abilIT’s inclusive tech training nationwide.
abilIT Leadership
abilIT is led by a team with decades of experience in disability services, inclusive workforce development, and public-private partnerships. Their expertise ensures the program is both impactful and scalable nationwide.
Emily Homer
Executive Director, Melwood Community Services
With over 35 years in disability services, Emily has led programs across public and private sectors. Her deep understanding of inclusive workforce development has helped shape abilIT from the ground up.
Teresa Thomas
Director, abilIT
Teresa brings nearly a decade of experience in neurodivergent talent strategy and recruitment. At MITRE, she led federal neurodiversity hiring pilots and co-authored the Neurodiversity@Work Playbook.
Alvena Heggins
Senior Program Professional Development Trainer, abilIT
Al leads the creation of abilIT’s professional development curriculum and heads up our Train the Trainer team. Her extensive background in education and administration bring deep expertise to the team.
Muhammad Basra
Senior Program Tech Trainer, abilIT
Muhammad heads up the Technology side of abilIT’s Train the Trainer support. With his degree and extensive tech certifications, he is a great asset to our partner trainers.
Why abilIT was created
abilIT was created to address the lack of opportunities for people with disabilities in the tech sector. Many had the skills but weren’t given a chance to compete. The program fills this gap by offering free, skills-based training and support to help participants launch meaningful careers in IT and cybersecurity.
2019
abilIT Launches
Melwood Community Services launches abilIT to train people with disabilities for careers in IT, Tech and cybersecurity.
2022
10th Cohort Graduates
Graduates exemplify success, proving abilIT’s impact in the community.
2024
abilIT Across America
Program expands nationally through nonprofit partners and grant support.
About Melwood
Melwood is a family of companies with a shared vision of a world where people with disabilities are fully included. Melwood comprises three primary companies—Melwood Enterprises, Melwood Community Services, and Melwood Inc. Through innovative programs like abilIT, Melwood Community Services creates pathways to employment, independence, and community connection—empowering individuals to thrive in every aspect of life.