Employment & Inclusion Conference 2026: The Power of Expectations

The Employment & Inclusion Conference 2026: The Power of Expectations is an inaugural event organized by the Center for Employment and Inclusion (CEI) at Utah State University. This conference aims to bring together disability professionals to explore best practices in employment, share experiences, and network with organizations and agencies dedicated to disability inclusion.

Key topics include the impact of expectations on employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities, strategies for fostering high-expectation cultures within organizations, and practical tools for supporting personal autonomy and self-determination. Sessions will cover areas such as Customized Employment, Discovery processes, and the application of video modeling in employment settings.

The conference features a keynote presentation by Beth Keeton, Executive Director of Griffin-Hammis Associates, discussing the role of expectations in designing effective employment systems. Additional sessions will be led by experts like Shannon Wilkins, Director of Employment Services at Community Options, Inc., and Dr. Ryan Kellems, Associate Professor at Brigham Young University, offering insights into building capacity among employment support providers and utilizing technology to enhance workplace performance.

This event is ideal for disability service providers, employment specialists, job coaches, educators, employers, family members, and self-advocates seeking to enhance their understanding and implementation of inclusive employment practices. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge, practical strategies, and opportunities to connect with peers committed to advancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.