Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Helping Montana’s students with disabilities get EDUCATED, CONNECTED and READY for life, work and independence!
What are Pre-Employment Transition Services?
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are activities that provide an early start at job exploration for students with disabilities ages 14-21 to assist with transitioning from school to postsecondary education or employment. Vocational Rehabilitation and Blind Services (VRBS) works with schools and other organizations across the state to deliver Pre-ETS services. Pre-ETS services focus on
- Job Exploration Counseling
- Work-Based Learning Experiences
- Counseling on Post-Secondary Programs
- Workplace Readiness Training
- Instruction in Self-Advocacy
- Resources
How Can I Access Pre-ETS?
To apply, students may ask their teacher or family to help schedule an appointment with the VRBS Pre-ETS Specialist or the Vocational Rehabilitation Office that serves their area.
Montana VRBS supports special projects to support youth with their transition needs. Examples are the
- Montana Youth Transitions program,
- Montana Youth Leadership Forum, and
- Movin’ On, campus experience programs at U of M and MSU-Billings.
Disability Mentoring Week
Disability Mentoring Week is an annual statewide event held each October in alignment with National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This week gives Pre-ETS eligible students meaningful opportunities to learn about future career options and connect with employers in their communities. Throughout the week, students participate in a variety of career exploration activities such as presentations from local businesses, hands‑on demonstrations, job shadows, informational interviews, onsite workplace tours, and in some cases, short-term work-based learning experiences. Disability Mentoring Week is designed to help students build confidence, develop career interests, and gain a clearer understanding of the world of work.
2025 Disability Mentoring Week Highlights:
Healthcare:
Anthony, a senior, shadowed an X-ray technician at Logan Health’s Ortho Walk-In Clinic, observing imaging procedures and learning about medical diagnostics.
Government & Public Service:
Fiona, a junior, spent the week with the Department of Public Health and Human Services, exploring careers in public relations, policy, and state government.
Economic Development:
Kam participated in a half-day event with the Montana Department of Commerce, learning how data and policy inform decisions in housing, tourism, and business development through hands-on activities and staff discussions.
Food Service:
Neiko, a sophomore, completed a job shadow at Dyllan’s Pizza, learning food preparation, customer service, and kitchen operations. The business is exploring a longer work-based learning opportunity with him.
Automotive & Mechanical Trades:
T.H., a senior, completed a paid summer experience at Tire Rama as a tire technician. His strong performance earned him continued part-time work during the school year.
2024 Disability Mentoring Week Highlights:
Computer Technology:
Alex completed an informational interview and job shadow with a computer repair specialist at Montana Technical Solutions, gaining insight into diagnostics and repair work.
Animal Care:
Shay spent a full day job shadowing at the Polson Animal Clinic, observing animal care, clinic operations, and the daily work of veterinary staff.
Food Service & Customer Service:
Anjle participated in a work‑based learning experience at Pawpaw’s, building job skills and learning more about working in a customer‑focused environment.
Broadcast & Sound Engineering:
Clayton, interested in sound engineering, job shadowed Chief Engineer Paul Holzwarth at Non-Stop Local throughout the week. He toured the station, explored the control center, and learned about the equipment used to produce a newscast.
Zoo & Wildlife Careers:
Tirzah met with Jeff Ewelt, Executive Director of ZooMontana, in an informational interview to learn more about zoo operations and careers working with animals.