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Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary
Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2025
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov
2025 Joint Report Highlights Career Pathways, Equity, and Wages
MADISON – Wisconsin’s ongoing commitment to competitive integrated employment (CIE) for individuals with disabilities is producing promising outcomes according to the newly released 2025 Joint CIE Report from the Department of Workforce Development (DWD), Department of Health Services (DHS), and Department of Public Instruction (DPI). The agencies also have developed and published a 2026-2027 CIE Biennial Plan that outlines specific objectives and guiding principles for future cross-agency collaboration.
“Wisconsin’s collaborative approach to empowering Wisconsinites with disabilities to reach career, educational, and personal goals is truly making a difference,” said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. “We’re grateful for the ongoing partnership of DHS and DPI as we work to connect youth and adults with disabilities to in-demand jobs, meaningful career pathways, and the training and support they need to thrive.”
“The DPI is proud to partner with other state agencies to make sure all Wisconsin students have access to career opportunities,” said Dr. Jill Underly, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We understand the important role education plays in preparing students for life and work, and how our work can ensure positive outcomes for individuals, communities, and the future of our state. We remain committed to giving hands-on support for teachers and students and keeping our Career Readiness Standards updated to best support all learners.”
Through the newly published CIE biennial plan, the agencies have set out new joint objectives for 2026-27, including launching an adult technical assistance guide, expanding access to Individual Placement and Support (IPS) programs, and exploring the development of a public-facing CIE data dashboard.
“’Better together’ is more than a motto. It’s how we’re creating real pathways to success for thousands of Wisconsinites with disabilities,” said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson. “We’re proud of the innovation and dedication our teams and partners have shown, and we look forward to building on this progress.”
The annual joint report and the biennial CIE plan are required by 2017 Wisconsin Act 178 and demonstrate how cross-agency partnerships are advancing CIE for individuals with disabilities statewide. Highlights include new career pathway initiatives, expanded youth apprenticeship participation, and improvements in wage and employment rates across all major demographic groups.
To learn more and access the full 2025 Joint CIE Report, the 2026-2027 CIE Plan and to read about recent success stories of individuals served please visit the CIE webpage.
Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.