Gov., Starbucks team up to help disabled

Starbucks Coffee Company and Nevada’s Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation have come together to create the Starbucks Inclusion Academy, a new on-the-job training program at the Starbucks Carson Valley Roasting Plant & Distribution Center that helps people with disabilities gain work experience in manufacturing and distribution.

Governor Brian Sandoval officially launched the program at a special graduation ceremony for students Thursday at the plant in Minden.

“I want to extend my appreciation to Starbucks for its dedication to working with our community to improve Nevada’s workforce and recognizing the importance of hiring people with disabilities,” said Sandoval. “Collaborations with the private sector are vital to our state and we appreciate the opportunity to work with Starbucks on this endeavor.”

“Starbucks is deeply committed to creating pathways to opportunity for our people and the communities they serve,” said John Kelly, Starbucks senior vice president of global responsibility and public policy. “These graduates remind us to do everything we can to develop an inclusive workplace and a diverse network of suppliers. It’s both the right thing to do and good for business. We are proud to join Governor Sandoval and DETR to launch the first Starbucks Inclusion Academy in Nevada.”

Starbucks provides the training facility and trainers for on-the-job and soft skills practice at its Carson Valley roasting plant and distribution center in Minden. DETR’s Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation refers the candidates to the program, provides the classroom instructors, and pays the instructors’ salary. The candidates participate in three hours of classroom instruction and three hours of work each day for the first four weeks. During the final two weeks the candidates complete an internship in Starbucks roasting plant and distribution center. The candidates also receive assistance with job interviews and local placement.

Sandoval awarded certificates to all graduates, many of whom have already secured fulltime jobs in manufacturing, distribution or warehousing roles in the Carson Valley region as a result of their participation in the Starbucks Inclusion Academy. The inaugural class of seven candidates completed the Starbucks Inclusion Academy training in October, while the next class of four students completed the training in January.

For more information, visit: http://news.starbucks.com/news/hiring-workers-with-disabilities-at-starbucks-largest-distribution-plant.