People with Disabilities Subcommittee
Welcome!
The Interagency Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship (IACA) People with Disabilities Subcommittee aims to increase the number of registered apprenticeship programs in California and ensure that they are inclusive of people with disabilities. We bring together stakeholders from across the state to identify barriers, share best practices, and promote equitable access to high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for all.
If you’re interested in learning more about registered apprenticeships, exploring strategies for inclusion, or sharing the work of your program, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming meetings.
Co-Chairs
Maria Aliferis-Gjerde, MPPA
Executive Officer, California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (CCEPD) - CA Department of Rehabilitation
Robert Fried
Partner, Practus, LLP
Robert Fried | Practus, LLP
Committee Members
David Fazio
CEO, Helix Opportunity
Helix Opportunity Institute
John Paul (J.P.) Tabakian, Ed.D.
President, WestCal Academy
WestCal Academy® - Career Pathways, Self Advocacy and Mentorships
Jaime H. Pacheco-Orozco
General Manager, City of Los Angeles Department of Aging
City of Los Angeles Department of Aging
Aaron Carruthers
Executive Director, State Council on Developmental Disabilities
SCDD | State Council on Developmental Disabilities
Tania Morawiec
Employment First and Evidence-Based Practices Consultant
Andrea Harlin
Committee Advisor
Division of Apprenticeship Standards
Ranai Browne
Committee Advisor
Division of Apprenticeship Standards
Committee Charter, Reports and Meeting Notes
Self-nominations are accepted by the committee. To be considered, the person must email the DAS Advisor prior to the next public meeting expressing their interest in being a voting member and their experience.
People who have lived experience with a disability or those who are family advocates are encouraged to participate.
Industry Occupational Frameworks
Events/What’s News
Contact Us
Andrea Harlin, DAS Committee Advisor, aharlin@dir.ca.gov
DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION NOTICE: Disability accommodation is available upon request. Any person with a disability requiring an accommodation, auxiliary aid or service, or a modification of policies or procedures to ensure effective communication and access to the public hearings/meetings of the Department of Industrial Relations) should contact the Diversity and Inclusion Office at DIO@dir.ca.gov or (916) 559-6999. The state-wide Disability Accommodation Coordinator can also be reached through the California Relay Service, by dialing 711 or (800) 735-2929 (TTY) or (800) 855-3000 (TTY-Spanish). Accommodation requests should be submitted as early as possible, but no later than five days before the hearing or meeting.
October 2025