How Technology Can Aid Your Career Path as an Amputee

Working a regular job can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing. Along with providing you with financial security, it can present opportunities to connect with other people and add a sense of purpose to your life.

If you’re an amputee, you have a lot of technology at your disposal to help you build the career you envision. Remote learning, remote work opportunities, and assistive technologies abound—you just have to know where to look! Below, Ed Carter of AbleFutures has provided some practical guidance to get you started.

Going to School          

If you’ve wanted to improve your career prospects by pursuing a college degree, now could be the time to do it. There are many remote opportunities offered by accredited universities across the country these days.

For instance, if you dream of being a teacher, your best path forward is to get a bachelor of science in education. This degree will enable you to teach preschoolers and elementary-aged children, and considering that teachers are becoming increasingly in demand, you will likely have excellent job security.

Another perk of online college is that you can choose from a range of course schedules that allow you to work from home at your own pace, meaning you can manage other life responsibilities while earning a degree.

Home Business Opportunities  

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur, you have no shortage of home-based businesses to choose from. You can set up a home office that accommodates your needs and make a living doing something you are passionate about. For instance, you could become a freelance writer, web designer, content creator, virtual assistant, or bookkeeper. You could launch an e-commerce business where you sell products you believe in. If you have expertise in a specific industry, you could forge a lucrative career as a remote consultant.

If you choose to start your own business, you will need to lay a firm foundation by selecting the proper legal structure, writing a thorough business plan, and researching potential competitors to see how you can uniquely position your company. You will also need to invest in brand development and creating a website that helps your business stand out and engages your audience.

Job Hunting   

If you want to work as an employee, you still have many remote work opportunities to consider. Start by checking with your network for potential job openings, and research disability advocacy groups and job placement services to help you land a fulfilling job that pays well. Online job boards and remote staffing agencies are also excellent resources for finding work-from opportunities.

No matter what outlets you use to find a job, make sure you have a well-written resume to show potential employers. Many templates and tools help you craft a resume (and cover letter) that will help you stand out to hiring managers.

Assistive Technologies

You can work every day in a familiar and accessible home office by working remotely. You might already have some of the assistive technologies available. Still, new tools and equipment are coming to the market regularly, so be sure to keep up to date on the latest technologies that could aid your career.

For example, you can find many high-quality raised desks to help you work comfortably using a wheelchair. Also, look into the special keyboards available to allow you to type with one hand.

Jobs provide much more than financial security. They can set the stage for meaningful connections with other people, add purpose to your life, and significantly improve self-confidence. Consider the advice above for pursuing an online degree, starting a home-based business, and finding a job that accommodates your needs and interests. And remember to stay in tune with the latest assistive technologies. We live in a time where you can succeed in a wide range of careers as an amputee!

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate technology into your business, get in touch with Farelli Consulting to begin receiving enterprise-level support without the enterprise cost. 

**  Image provided via Unsplash