What is job carving in the context of vocational rehabilitation?

Job carving in the context of vocational rehabilitation refers to the process where specific tasks within a job are customized to align with the unique abilities and strengths of an individual with a disability. This approach creates an inclusive work environment, ensuring that individuals can perform meaningful work while accommodating their needs and skills.

The essence of job carving lies in its flexibility; it recognizes that not all tasks within a role may be suitable for everyone. By modifying the job to match what an individual can do well, it enhances their employability and supports their integration into the workforce. This tailored approach can lead to increased job satisfaction and success for individuals who might otherwise struggle with traditional job roles that do not consider their specific capabilities.

In contrast, modifying a job to create new roles doesn’t specifically emphasize aligning those roles with an individual’s abilities, and providing training for existing employees or hiring individuals based on their past experience does not address the customization aspect that job carving encapsulates. Job carving is specifically focused on the intersection of a person’s capabilities and the role's requirements, making it a critical practice within vocational rehabilitation.