Training & Employment

Preparing Friends for Meaningful Work and Meaningful Lives

At Gatesway, employment is more than a job. It’s a pathway to confidence, connection, and independence.

We work one-on-one with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) — whom we proudly call our Friends — to help them discover their strengths, build valuable skills, and find jobs they love.

Whether working on our campus or in the broader community, our Friends take pride in what they do and bring joy, energy, and purpose to every workplace.

Community-Integrated Employment (CIE)

We focus on Community-Integrated Employment, meaning Friends are employed by local businesses and work alongside their peers in inclusive environments.

Jobs are selected based on each Friend’s interests, abilities, and long-term goals. The result is greater independence, confidence, and satisfaction.

We Partner With 25+ Local Businesses. Top Partners Include:
Empower Business Services • Walmart • Goodwill • Wendy's • Reasor's

Empower Business Services: Inclusive Jobs with Purpose

One of our strongest partners is Empower Business Services, a full-service office solutions center launched by Gatesway in 2025 and located in CityPlex Towers in Tulsa.

These jobs provide structure, stability, and an opportunity to build professional workplace habits while contributing to meaningful projects.

Empower Business Services offers:

High-quality printing, copying, scanning
Secure shredding and document management
Office supply delivery
Courier, mailroom, and shipping services
Notary public services

Learn more or order online at empowerbusinessservices.org

Training & Employment Pathways

Vocational Employment

Our team provides personalized coaching and support from job search to job success — whether a Friend works on campus, in the community, or with a small workgroup.

Services Include:

Career discovery and job matching
Resume creation and interview preparation
On-the-job coaching with a Gatesway Job Coach

We place 3–5 member job crews, supervised by a Gatesway Job Coach, in industries such as: Housekeeping, Janitorial, Lawn Maintenance, Paper Shredding, and Delivery Services.

Vocational Training

Located on our Broken Arrow campus, vocational training is a structured, supportive space where Friends:

Learn and practice real job skills
Participate in fulfilling hands-on tasks (e.g., packaging, collating, labeling, assembly)
Build the confidence and work ethic needed for future employment

Under the guidance of Vocational Specialists, Friends progress at their own pace while discovering what kinds of work bring them joy.

❝

“My son has been a long-time resident at Gatesway. I am so very grateful to the staff for the care they show to him each day. Gatesway also provides employment opportunities within the community, empowering him in his career as well as his personal life.”

— Christine
Friend’s Mother

Get Started with Employment Services

We’re not just here to help your loved one find a job — we’re here to help them thrive in it.

Step 1: Apply

Apply for Employment Services through OKDRS or OKDHS.
Once approved, your Friend will receive a support plan with a list of local providers.
You can request to be referred to Gatesway or reach out to us directly.

Step 2: Explore Interests

We’ll meet with your Friend to learn about their goals and strengths.
Begin job exploration and practice applications and interview skills.
Gatesway staff will attend interviews with your Friend for additional support.

Step 3: Start the Job With Support

Once hired, a Gatesway Job Coach checks in regularly — offering coaching and encouragement.
As confidence builds, support is gradually reduced to foster independence.

Let’s Build a Brighter Future - Together

Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or ready to start today, our employment team is here to help.

Call us at
(918) 258-3900

or

Email
info@gatesway.org

Not Sure Where to Start?

Whether you’re just beginning to explore options or ready to start today, our employment team is here to help.

Call us at
(918) 258-3900

or

Email
info@gatesway.org

Building Confidence Through Work That Matters.

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