Wisconsin’s Cross-Agency Collaboration Supports Progress for Workers with Disabilities

MADISON – Wisconsin’s ongoing commitment to competitive integrated employment (CIE) for individuals with disabilities is producing promising outcomes according to the newly released 2025 Joint CIE Report from the Department of Workforce Development (DWD), Department of Health Services (DHS), and Department of Public Instruction (DPI). The agencies also have developed and published a 2026-2027 CIE Biennial Plan that outlines specific objectives and guiding principles for future cross-agency collaboration.

“Wisconsin’s collaborative approach to empowering Wisconsinites with disabilities to reach career, educational, and personal goals is truly making a difference,” said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. “We’re grateful for the ongoing partnership of DHS and DPI as we work to connect youth and adults with disabilities to in-demand jobs, meaningful career pathways, and the training and support they need to thrive.”

2025’s CIE report highlights

• Over 107,000 individuals with disabilities were served by state agencies in 2024, compared to 103,000 in 2022.
• DWD’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) saw an increase in new Individual Plans for Employment (IPEs) for Black, Hispanic, and other minority individuals. Additionally, racial and ethnic minorities comprise 29% of individuals served in education and training programs.
• Average hourly wages for individuals closing cases with DVR have risen steadily, reaching nearly $17 per hour overall, and $12.60 per hour for those in supported employment. Median wages for youth apprentices with disabilities also grew, with the majority earning above $13 per hour.

“The DPI is proud to partner with other state agencies to make sure all Wisconsin students have access to career opportunities,” said Dr. Jill Underly, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We understand the important role education plays in preparing students for life and work, and how our work can ensure positive outcomes for individuals, communities, and the future of our state. We remain committed to giving hands-on support for teachers and students and keeping our Career Readiness Standards updated to best support all learners.”

Key performance achievements

• More than 1,000 individuals have enrolled in the Career Pathways Advancement initiative, training for high-demand fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, IT, and construction, and 170 participants pants have already secured jobs at an average wage of $21 per hour.
• Engagement of underrepresented groups in education, training, and pre-employment transition services continues to trend upward.
• All three agencies now share a data compilation system which has contributed to more accurate reporting on CIE outcomes, provides further data analysis driving targeted outreach, and better aligns services for commonly served individuals.

Next steps

Through the newly published CIE biennial plan, the agencies have set out new joint objectives for 2026-27, including launching an adult technical assistance guide, expanding access to Individual Placement and Support (IPS) programs, and exploring the development of a public-facing CIE data dashboard.

“’Better together’ is more than a motto. It’s how we’re creating real pathways to success for thousands of Wisconsinites with disabilities,” said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson. “We’re proud of the innovation and dedication our teams and partners have shown, and we look forward to building on this progress.”

About the CIE report and CIE plan

The annual joint report and the biennial CIE plan are required by 2017 Wisconsin Act 178 and demonstrate how cross-agency partnerships are advancing CIE for individuals with disabilities statewide. Highlights include new career pathway initiatives, expanded youth apprenticeship participation, and improvements in wage and employment rates across all major demographic groups.

To learn more and access the full 2025 Joint CIE Report, the 2026-2027 CIE Plan and to read about recent success stories of individuals served please visit the CIE webpage.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.