This presentation, given at the National Symposium on Rehabilitation Counseling, focuses on a collaborative intensive technical assistance (ITA) case study by Bryan S. Austin, Stuart Rumrill, and Jim Knauf from the University of Illinois. The case study delves into their ITA model and highlights experiences with three SVRAs: Indiana Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, and Arkansas Division of Services for the Blind. It concludes with recommendations for vocational rehabilitation counseling, research, and a call to explore apprenticeships as a viable option for VR customers.

Learning Objectives:

• Gain insights into the barriers and successes associated with implementing apprenticeship programs for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) customers through a collaborative intensive technical assistance (ITA) approach.
• Learn to identify the needs of State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies (SVRAs) and develop collaborative strategies to enhance SVRA capacity for implementing Registered Apprenticeships (RA) with VR customers.
• Articulate future directions for SVRAs to increase RA employment outcomes, promoting the career advancement of Vocational Rehabilitation customers.