Subscribe to the ODEP News Brief

ODEP News Brief. Driving Change - Creating Opportunity

July 2026

National Disability Employment Awareness Month Poster

The 2026 NDEAM Poster Is Here!

National Disability Employment Awareness Month takes place in October, but planning begins well before. Get started by downloading or ordering our official 2026 NDEAM poster and join us in “Celebrating Value and Talent” in honor of NDEAM and the 250th birthday of our nation. Visit our webpage for other media—videos, virtual backgrounds, stickers, and more—along with ideas for your own NDEAM observances.

 

 

A man in the wheel chair discusses with a woman across

How ABLE Accounts Support Work and Financial Independence

ABLE accounts are tax-advantaged savings and investment accounts that allow eligible Americans with disabilities to work, earn, and save without risking needed benefits. On July 1, the ODEP-funded National Expansion of Employment Opportunities Network Initiative held a Community of Practice webinar exploring how ABLE accounts can empower job seekers and workers to accept a job, pursue a promotion, or increase their work hours with confidence. If you missed the webinar, you can watch the recording now. ABLE eligibility and contribution limits have been expanded under President Trump, so tune in to learn the latest.

 

A man on the wheelchair in front of the machine

Accommodations for Skilled Trades and Essential Occupations

Productivity, safety, and employee retention are priorities across every industry, especially in skilled trades and essential occupations. Join ODEP’s Job Accommodation Network on July 16, 2–3 p.m. ET, for the free webinar “Accommodation Solutions for Skilled Trades and Essential Occupations” to explore workplace accommodation strategies in operational settings. The webinar will cover industries such as construction, manufacturing, public safety, and distribution centers. You’ll gain practical guidance to help equip your workforce for America’s Golden Age.

 

A lady in healthcare uniform

Accommodating Healthcare Workers with Motor Impairments

Healthcare workers perform many tasks that require motor movement, such as lifting, carrying, manipulating equipment, walking, and standing. Workers with motor impairments may need accommodations to perform their job. From safe patient-handling supports to adaptive clinical tools and mobility-friendly workplace solutions, ODEP’s Job Accommodation Network has ideas and strategies to support nurses, physical therapists, physicians, and other healthcare workers to maintain high-quality care.

 

two men are in manufacturing facility

Spotlight on the Manufacturing Industry: How to Recruit, Re-Train, and Retain Talent

Our summer webinar series is back this month! In line with President Trump’s goal to make America skilled again, we’ll be spotlighting the workforce needs of growing, high-demand industries. On July 22, 2–3 p.m. ET, ODEP’s Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability will lead “Strengthening the Manufacturing Industry: Recruit, Re-Train, and Retain Valuable Workforce Talent.” Join us for a discussion about industry trends related to recruitment and retention; strategies such as upskilling and reskilling to encourage long-term workforce stability; workplace supports that help workers with disabilities succeed in manufacturing roles; and resources for employers who want to build up their talent pipelines. You can also watch a recording of EARN’s previous webinar spotlighting the construction industry.