WHAT IS PRE-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING?

BCI’s Pre-Employment Training Program focuses on building skills needed for long-term employment success. This program is intensive from the start and designed to meet each participant where they are. If you are new to the workforce or looking to build job skills, training with BCI can be the first step towards meaningful employment.  

Enrollment is open year-round on a rolling basis. Participants begin gaining hands-on experience at business sites immediately following a brief orientation.

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Two Pre-Employment participants with disabilities and their instructor doing an activity

QUALIFICATIONS

Program participation is open to individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state, or local law who meet the following qualifications:

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Documented disability
  • Goal and desire to pursue competitive employment
  • Reside in Missouri in St. Charles County, Lincoln County, or St. Louis County
  • Eligible for pre-employment services through a Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) waiver
  • Able to self-administer medications
  • Able to participate safely in community settings
  • Independent in self-care needs
  • Free from aggressive behaviors

BCI may be able to provide transportation assistance for those who need it. 

To join BCI’s Pre-Employment Program, contact your case manager to determine your eligibility and request funding. If you have questions about the program, contact Employment Support Specialist Jordan Christie at jchristie@boonecenter.com, or call 636-875-5214. 

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Participants receive personalized, in-person, hands-on instruction in a supportive and structured environment. With a low 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio, we provide the guidance and attention needed for each individual to succeed. 

BCI uses industry-recognized assessment tools to gain a clear, individualized understanding of each participant. For example, the Feasibility Evaluation Checklist (FEC) is a vocational observation tool that evaluates an individual’s performance in work skills and behaviors. The evaluation is administered at enrollment and tracked throughout the program to measure real progress over time.

Participants attend the program four hours per day, Monday through Friday. Program length is tailored to each person’s skills, goals, and support needs. A typical day includes brief classroom instruction, followed by hands-on experience at a business site with supportive coaching.

We focus on building a strong foundation for long-term employment success:

  • Hard Skills: Workplace Safety and Procedures, Technical Task Training, Following Directions and Routines
  • Soft Skills: Teamwork and Cooperation, Accountability and Responsibility, Problem-Solving and Conflict Resolution 

Participants will also identify strengths and interests, recognize skill gaps, and address individual barriers. Upon completion, participants will be well-prepared for employment and receive continued support in finding and securing a job.

GETTING STARTED

To enroll, contact your case manager to determine eligibility and request funding. Participants with a DMH Person-Centered Service Plan (PCSP) may bring it to the enrollment interview. Interviews assess safety awareness, independence, and readiness for employment. 

PART I: ORIENTATION AND FOUNDATION

  • Introduction to the program and expectations
  • Career assessments and goal setting
  • General work skills and workplace behavior training

PART II: HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

  • Hands-on skill development through task training
  • Volunteer opportunities from Monday to Friday

PART III: CAREER READINESS AND TRANSITION PLANNING

  • Final skill assessments and career planning
  • Resume writing and job application assistance
  • Benefits planning and employment resource connections
  • Team meeting to review progress, identify next steps, and plan for competitive employment

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FURTHER OPPORTUNITIES

BCI offers a continuum of employment opportunities. Upon successful completion of the Pre-Employment Training Program, BCI offers continued support in finding and securing a job. Our Competitive Employment program may be the next logical step. For those who are interested in further career exploration or learning additional hard skills, our Vocational Training could be a good fit.