NAYTHAN GUTIERREZ SUCCESS STORY

Since the launch of our grant-funded program in 2024, Employ 210 has developed a broad range of job-training “blueprints” that our team members have built around employee shadowing, task-based role play and simulated workplace scenarios. By the time our participants “graduate” from one of our training programs, they have a better understanding of workplace expectations and have already practiced the key tasks of the job at hand. This hands-on experience gives Employ 210 participants a great advantage when they apply to work with one of our San Antonio business partners.

Geared for individuals with varying disabilities who are interested in pursuing a career in education, psychology or social work, our Instructional Assistant and Substitute Teacher blueprint is a two-part program. After completing the training portion, participants are encouraged to volunteer at Camp Durango — a program for autistic youth and their siblings that's organized by UT San Antonio’s Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) department.

An early success story, Employ 210 participant Naythan Gutierrez completed our Instructional Assistant and Substitute Teacher program and is now working as a substitute paraprofessional. A San Antonio native who enjoyed studying science during high school at San Antonio Independent School District, Naythan confirmed that the training helped prepare him for his first job.

“The trainers were very nice and helpful, and I enjoyed my time with them,” he said. “[Employ 210 Project Manager] Sierra Stegemann was genuinely helpful. She was easy to communicate with when I needed help.”

When asked about a typical day on the job, Naythan explained that it involves supporting students and teachers alike. “A typical day at work consists of helping students and some staff,” he said. “With kids in special education classes, I’m making sure they stay safe, have a good day, and get help with schoolwork. With staff, it’s making copies, dropping off papers to teachers, or watching the students while teachers have a meeting. I enjoy assisting in the special education classes the most.”

Reflecting on his experience supporting autistic youth at Camp Durango, Naythan continued, “I know [my experience at] Camp Durango helped me get my job. If I had not received an option to volunteer, I don’t think I would be working now in my field.”

Funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H421F240046.