For Immediate Release

Montana Disability Employment and Transitions Division (DETD) Announces Statewide Pre-ETS Summer Camps Aligned with the 406 Jobs Initiative

young woman speaking into microphone in front of seated peers
Layla Riggs of Helena participates in a recent MYLife camp sponsored by DPHHS. Photo courtesy of DPHHS.
  • June 08 2026

Contact: 

  • DPHHS: Jon Ebelt, Communications Director, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757, jebelt@mt.gov

HELENA, MT — The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Disability Employment and Transitions Division (DETD) has announced its full lineup of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Summer Camps for 2026.

Designed for students with disabilities, these statewide camps offer hands-on opportunities to explore careers, build vital workplace readiness skills, and prepare for future independence.

This year’s programming is strategically aligned with Montana’s 406 Jobs Initiative, focusing on the state’s six highest-demand industries: Health Care; Construction; Hospitality and Recreation; Advanced Manufacturing and Computing; Education and Child Care; Financial and Professional Services.

“These camps help students discover their strengths and explore meaningful career pathways while directly supporting Montana’s long-term workforce needs,” said Chanda Hermanson, DETD Administrator. “Connecting our Pre-ETS programming with the 406 Jobs Initiative ensures our youth are uniquely prepared for rewarding opportunities in Montana’s fastest-growing industries.”

Summer 2026 Camps Lineup:

  • Ignite Your Potential: Career Exploration Camps – Foundational career exploration with industry visits and employer engagement tied to 406 Jobs sectors.
    • Great Falls: June 8-12
    • Anaconda: June 15-19
    • Hamilton: July 13-17
    • Browning: July 20-24
    • Big Timber: July 20-24
  • Camp Pathfinders: Outdoor Careers – Focus on natural resources, parks, and public service careers.
    • Ennis: June 18-19
  • Starbase Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Camp – Hands-on coding, computer-aided design (CAD), circuitry, and STEAM experiences with links to advanced manufacturing and computing pathways.
    • Great Falls: June 22-23
  • MYLiFe Step 2: Career Exploration – Job Expo, individualized tours, and job shadows across multiple interest areas aligned to high-demand fields.
    • Helena: June 22-26
  • Movin’ On in Montana – In-depth exploration of health care, trades, advanced manufacturing, education, financial services, and recreation pathways.
    • Montana State University Billings: June 29-July 2
  • Montana Youth Leadership Forum (MYLiFe) – Leadership, advocacy, and independent living skill development.
    • Helena: July 13-17

Registration Information

Space is limited, and early registration is highly encouraged. Students and families interested in participating should contact their local Pre-ETS specialist or Vocational Rehabilitation and Blind Services (VRBS) representative.

To find your local office, visit the online directory: VRBS Offices by County.

Tags: News and Workforce and Training