Business Details
21 Years
experience
Empowering Students with Special Needs Through Employment
Founded in 2005, Career & Employment Options (CEO) has dedicated two decades to transforming transition services for students with disabilities across Long Island. Our mission centers on empowering individuals through personalized educational services that promote independence, career readiness, and personal growth. By collaborating with over 30 school districts, families, and community partners, we create inclusive pathways to employment and lifelong success. Our team of experts has developed innovative solutions like the Vocational Engagement Model (VEM) and Universal Pathway Design (UPD), which provide structured frameworks for vocational development and job placement. With a track record of securing over 300 internships and job placements since inception, we combine research-based methodologies with technology-driven platforms to ensure service consistency and measurable outcomes.Recognized through numerous accolades, including the HIA-LI Small Business Award Finalist distinction, our organization maintains a trusted reputation for excellence in transition services. Our staff receives continuous professional development to uphold high standards, while our partnerships with ACCES-VR and local municipalities enable us to offer no-cost programs that address systemic barriers to employment. Through personalized job coaching, travel training, and vocational assessments, we equip individuals with the skills needed to secure and maintain competitive employment. Our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement ensures that every student receives tailored support aligned with their unique abilities and aspirations.
Services
Transition Services
Career Counseling
Job Coaching
Travel Training
Job Placement
PAES Lab
CDOS Commencement
Linkages
Vocational Assessments
Assistive Technology
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Specialized expertise in transition services for students with disabilities
- Innovative, research-based approach with proven curriculums
- Customized solutions tailored to school district needs
- Expert team with continuous professional development
- Proven success with 20+ years of measurable outcomes
What people say
Most impactful training
Students show growth
Invaluable coaching sessions
Services
Transition Services
Our Transition Services provide structured pathways for students with disabilities to develop workplace readiness skills. Through personalized career planning, vocational assessments, and job placement support, we help students navigate from education to competitive employment. Our programs align with state standards and incorporate hands-on learning experiences to build confidence and independence.
Job Coaching
Job Coaching offers one-on-one guidance to help individuals secure and maintain employment. We focus on skill development, workplace accommodations, and self-advocacy training. Our coaches provide ongoing support through site visits and tailored strategies that address specific job requirements and personal needs for long-term career success.
PAES Lab
The PAES Lab delivers hands-on vocational assessments in simulated work environments. Participants rotate through office, factory, and retail tasks to evaluate work-related skills. This program identifies strengths and interests while developing essential workplace competencies through structured, industry-aligned activities that inform career planning.
Travel Training
Travel Training teaches safe, independent public transportation navigation. Students learn schedule reading, route planning, and safety protocols for buses, trains, and ride-sharing services. This program builds confidence in commuting to work or school through practical, real-world practice with trained consultants.
CDOS Commencement
CDOS Commencement Credential programs prepare students for employment through career planning and work-based learning. We offer two pathways: structured career plans with work experience or National Work Readiness Credential preparation. These programs enhance employability by developing job-specific skills and professional competencies aligned with state standards.
People
Anthony Ferrara
President/CEO
Anthony Ferrara leads Career & Employment Options with over 15 years of experience in disability services. He has expanded the organization's reach to 30+ school districts while developing innovative programs like Universal Pathway Design. His leadership focuses on systemic change in transition services.
Christina Carroll
Director of Program Services
Christina Carroll oversees program implementation across Long Island school districts. With expertise in vocational rehabilitation, she manages service delivery and staff training to ensure alignment with state standards and client needs.
Nicholas Villani
Founder
Nicholas Villani founded CEO in 2005 and developed the Vocational Engagement Model. As an advisor, he provides strategic direction based on 20+ years of experience in disability employment initiatives and policy development.
Jacquelyn Cammaroto
Transition Coordinator
Jacquelyn Cammaroto manages transition programs in Nassau County. She specializes in creating individualized plans that connect students with employment opportunities through school partnerships and community resources.
Grace Tully
Director of Workforce Development
Grace Tully leads workforce initiatives connecting businesses with grant-funded internship programs. She focuses on creating inclusive employment opportunities while helping companies access tax incentives for hiring individuals with disabilities.
Questions
What transition services do you offer for students with disabilities?
We provide career counseling, job coaching, travel training, and vocational assessments tailored to individual needs. Our programs align with state standards and focus on building workplace readiness skills.
How do you help students find employment?
We connect students with internships and competitive jobs through partnerships with local employers. Our job coaching services include resume development, interview preparation, and workplace accommodations.
Are your services available to all school districts?
We partner with over 30 school districts across Long Island. Contact us to discuss how we can collaborate with your district's special education programs.
Do you offer support for families?
Yes, we provide parent training and guidance on adult service systems. Our team helps families navigate vocational planning and transition from school to employment services.
What funding options exist for your programs?
We offer ACCES-VR-funded services, municipal grants, and Workforce Development Initiative programs. Many services are available at no cost to eligible school districts and participants.
How do you measure program success?
We track outcomes like job placements, skill development, and student growth. With over 300 internships secured since 2005, our data-driven approach ensures continuous improvement in service delivery.
