Employment First Kentucky

Employment First is the philosophy that everyone, including people with significant disabilities, can work in integrated employment. In Kentucky, competitive and integrated employment in the community is the first and primary option for persons with disabilities of working age who have communicated a desire to become employed. Kentucky became an Employment First state on May 15, 2018. HDI is the administrative home for Employment First in Kentucky. Executive director, Kathy Sheppard-Jones, is the lead administrator for Employment First. Katie Wolf Whaley co-chairs Kentucky’s Employment First Council.

Project Director:

Project Website: https://kcc.ky.gov/Vocational-Rehabilitation/boards-and-councils/Employment-First/Pages/default.aspx

 

Latest Updates

HDI Seminar Series panel members seated together at a table

A successful year for the HDI Seminar Series

The 2025-2026 HDI Seminar Series is coming to a close, but those curious haven’t missed their chance to learn. The …

Training Innovation Project Logo with byline Employer Engagement Strategies in Vocational Rehabilitation

Sheppard-Jones leads Training Innovation Project

When rehabilitation staff help people with disabilities find jobs, they need to know how to work with both the business …

Governor Andy Beshear with a large group of people behind the podium at the signing ceremony

Governor Beshear declares March Developmental Disabilities Month

It’s officially Developmental Disabilities Month in Kentucky, as per a proclamation signed by Governor Andy Beshear March 12. Beshear was …