Strengthening training and employment models for readiness in stem within vocational rehabilitation: project stem ready-VR

The University of Iowa received a $424,751 Project Grant from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services under the Innovative Rehabilitation Training program (CFDA 84.263), awarded October 1, 2025, with completion by September 30, 2026. The award funds the Project STEM Ready-VR (Strengthening Training and Employment Models for Readiness in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Within Vocational Rehabilitation) initiative, which develops innovative training programs and curricula for vocational rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals. The project strengthens the capacity of state rehabilitation agencies and service organizations to deliver effective vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities by integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) competencies into rehabilitation training frameworks.

This award aligns with the federal program's objective to create new types of training programs for rehabilitation personnel that enhance the delivery of rehabilitation services and ensure practitioners possess contemporary understanding of evolving labor market demands. The 12-month project period reflects the program's focus on demonstration and validation of training effectiveness, with the University of Iowa's established expertise in rehabilitation services and research positioning it to contribute meaningful innovations to the vocational rehabilitation workforce development landscape.