Employment can be a meaningful part of building a life on one’s own terms, offering a path toward greater independence and the ability to pursue personal goals. Yet people with disabilities still face barriers to finding meaningful work, from misconceptions about their abilities to workplaces that lack necessary accommodations. These challenges reach beyond the hiring process, shaping a person’s financial independence and the opportunities they have to build the future they want.
The data reveals just how significant these disparities remain: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that 38.1% of people with disabilities ages 16–64 were employed in 2025, compared with 74.8% of people without disabilities in the same age group. This gap highlights the need to expand access to employment and create more opportunities for people with disabilities to enter and grow within the workforce.
Addressing these disparities also means looking beyond simply getting someone hired. It involves creating pathways for people to explore different careers, develop their skills, and find work that reflects their interests and strengths. Improving access to employment is essential to ensuring people with disabilities have equitable opportunities to build careers and shape their own futures.
Creating Opportunities Through Employment
Flathead Industries began as a small recycling plant in that employed eight individuals with developmental disabilities. Since then, we’ve grown to offer a wide range of employment opportunities, including jobs within our own facilities and support for individuals applying for and working in the broader community.
Our commitment to fair and inclusive employment has continued to shape how we fulfill our mission and create opportunities: in 2019, Flathead Industries eliminated subminimum (commensurate) wages for employees with disabilities. This decision reflected our belief that employees deserve fair pay and recognition for the work they do, and that disability does not define the value of one’s contributions.
Helping People Find the Right Fit
Today, we employ around 120 people in community-based work settings, including our thrift stores, while supporting more than 150 individuals in pursuing local work opportunities through our Vocational Rehabilitation program. From exploring career interests and building job skills to connecting with local employers and providing on-the-job coaching, we work alongside individuals to find opportunities in the community that align with their strengths and personal goals.
Our work goes beyond getting someone hired: we strive to build pathways toward long-term success and greater independence by helping individuals find work that aligns with their strengths and goals, while providing the ongoing support they need to grow in their roles.
Looking for Employment Support?
If you or someone you know with a disability is looking for employment, exploring career options, or working toward greater independence, Flathead Industries is here to help. Our Vocational Rehabilitation team works alongside individuals to identify their strengths, build job skills and connect with opportunities that align with their interests and goals.
Connect with our Vocational Rehabilitation team to learn more about our employment services and take the next step toward building your future. Meg Tanner: mtanner@flatheadindustries.org.
Meaningful work starts with opportunity. Let’s create more of it together.
