An exciting day for the Ready, Willing and Able disability employment initiative, as the partnership proudly announced securing the first employer partner.
The California State Society of Opticians through their employment networks has committed to create multiple opportunities throughout the region for apprentice spectacle dispensers and apprentice contact lens dispenser positions exclusively through the Ready, Willing and Able program.
The announcement was made during a Ready, Willing and Able Stakeholder Forum, where participants discussed how to create new employment opportunities and address structural barriers to improve employment outcomes for Californian residents with a disability.

Ruby Garcia, Executive Director of the California State Society of Opticians (pictured here with Trung Le, Assistant Deputy Director, California Department of Rehabilitation and Alex Mendoza, Ready, Willing and Able Workforce Industry Liaison) was on hand to explain why the Society is excited about the possibilities of this unique apprenticeship initiative.
We are sure this announcement will be the first of many, and look forward to announcing more employer partners soon.
We are actively looking for new partners: if you are interested in getting involved with the Ready, Willing and Able program, whether it be as an employer or potential apprenticeship candidate, please contact Alex Mendoza to find out more.
For more information on how to join the partnership offering employment opportunities, or to apply for one of the exciting apprenticeship opportunities, please contact Alexandra Mendoza on 949 685 9020.