Teaching the Autism Community Trades (T.A.C.T.) w/ Danny Combs

ABCs of Disability Planning

Website: https://www.buildwithtact.org/
Facebook: @tactkidsorg
Phone: [phone]
This interview with Danny Combs is one I've been very excited about. T.A.C.T. is a one-of-a-kind program teaching individuals on the Spectrum of truly employable skills. The ages served range from 14 - 30, and although they are currently only located in Colorado the long-term vision is a network of affiliates around the country.
T.A.C.T.'s program is strength-based - they're not watering down the curriculum. The students are using real welding machines and sharp saws. Danny and I agree individuals on the Spectrum are often well-suited for jobs in the trades - because electricity and hydraulics follow rules, once you understand the basics it makes sense and isn't going to change. T.A.C.T. is seeing a greater than 80% employment rate with their graduates - this is PHENOMENAL! And the average wage is $23/hour.
Danny and I talk about the concern parents have about losing social security or medical. Unions are still present in the trades, negotiating for salary and benefits. T.A.C.T. looks for partners willing to provide room for advancement - they are not satisfied with "just" getting someone a job. The interviews are held life as "working interviews" rather than sterile office Q & A.
There is a lot to unpack in this video, I encourage you to watch it more than once. If you're interested in supporting Danny and his team please reach out directly. I believe we can use at least one T.A.C.T. affiliate in every state - as I said in the interview I think it could have a model similar to the Arc - with chapters around the country, all sharing the same mission.
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