About the Uniquely Abled Academy

The mission of the Uniquely Abled Academy is to create inclusive vocational career opportunities for young adults on the spectrum by matching their unique abilities to well-paying jobs in high demand.

The Uniquely Abled Academy (UAA) is a career training program for individuals with an autism diagnosis who have mild support needs. At Hudson Valley, the program takes place for two semesters. Students receive training and instruction in preparation for successful careers in the manufacturing industry as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinists. In addition, students who complete the program earn up to eleven college credits.

The goal of the program is to help students secure career opportunities in the CNC industry, leading to permanent and competitively paid employment. Students spend approximately half the week in our CNC labs learning skills in a hands-on, interactive way to program and operate the machinery. The other half of the week is spent in a classroom learning soft skills and social skills needed to obtain and keep a job. Over the two semesters, students follow the Time to Shine curriculum which teaches topics like self-determination, self-advocacy, resume writing and interviewing. Several field trips to manufacturing companies are included in the program.

Collaboration for the academy happens through machine technology educators, specialists in education for those with autism, state and local social service agencies, industry leaders, and the college's Center for Access and Assistive Technology (CAAT). Together, these collaborators bring a wealth of knowledge that prepares students for a well-rounded education which ensures job readiness in all areas.