Forum will examine employment trends in Rochester for those with disabilities

DEED’s forum on Wednesday will look at the effect of Mayo’s expansion plans, and employment-related services for those with disabilites.

By Joe Kimball

Sept. 24, 2013

A forum on economic trends in the Rochester area and how they will affect employment for those with disabilities will be held Wednesday.

Minnesota’s Department of Employment and Economic Development is promoting the forum, which will run from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, at the Rochester Art Center, 40 Civic Center Drive SE.

On the agenda:

An overview of Rochester’s current and future economic environment, including a discussion of the Mayo Clinic expansion plans and the latest labor market information.
A panel discussion featuring Vocational Rehabilitation Services transition specialists who work with high school students and young adults.
A panel discussion featuring students and young adults from the Rochester area regarding employment-related services, opportunities and challenges.

There also will be time for public comment on employment, transportation, housing, choice and independent living for individuals with disabilities.

Sponsors are: the State Rehabilitation Council-General, Rochester Vocational Rehabilitation Services office, Southeast Minnesota Center for Independent Living and Statewide Independent Living Council.