When people have the support they need to connect and contribute to their community, we are all better off. This is a key part of the Supported Employment program, that matches qualified job candidates with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to employment opportunities within King County.  

The Supported Employment program at the City of Seattle officially launched in 1998 and has employed nearly 100 people since then. This program ensures that all supported employees receive job coaching to assist with the application process, onboarding, training, retention and ongoing career growth. By doing so, the program enriches the workforce and connects people in the program with a career path that meets their goals.  

We will be sharing the stories of five different employees with the program in a series highlighting this program and its impact.   

TJ Maciel has been a steadfast Seattle City Light employee for 24 years, starting in November 1999. Over the years, TJ has transitioned from hands-on tasks like deliveries and stock management to data entry and electronic work, a shift largely driven by the COVID19 pandemic. 

 “My job has given me financial stability and independence,” TJ shares, noting that his work has allowed him to own his home and manage his life comfortably. 

 For TJ, work is more than just a paycheck—it’s about connection.  

“My coworkers are like family to me,” he says.  

These relationships have helped him find a sense of community and belonging in the workplace. 

In addition to his day-to-day responsibilities, TJ has been a vocal advocate for accessibility improvements, ensuring that the workplace is welcoming for everyone.  

“I helped remove frosted glass panels from my cubicle and get automatic doors installed for wheelchair users,” TJ says with pride. 

 Though he prefers staying behind the scenes, TJ takes satisfaction in knowing that his efforts make a difference.  

“I want to help others and make sure future employees have the same opportunities I’ve had,” he said.  

Outside of work, TJ enjoys sports, gaming, and attending NASCAR events, always staying active in his social life. He says he is grateful for the support from his mentor and ally, Heather Weldon and how his career has given him a sense of purpose and pride.  

“I can earn my own money. I can pay my own bills. I don’t have to ask people for so many things because I do it myself. I’m grateful to be able to do it myself…. Yeah, everything is because of my job. And I can’t say more than that,” he said. 

At the 35th annual Developmental Disabilities and Delays Legislative Forum Nov. 21, one of the legislative priorities touched on the importance of programs like Supported Employment.

Employment and Inclusion: Protect opportunities for employment and meaningful inclusion in the community through increasing provider payments to strengthen staffing that would help avoid delays or interruptions in service access.

Read more about the priorities here.