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
Committee Charter
Self-nominations for membership are accepted by the Subcommittee. To be considered, the person must email the subcommittee chair at email@org.gov prior to the next public meeting expressing their interest to be 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
If you require a disability-related accommodation, materials in alternate format, auxiliary aids/services, and ASL interpreters are available. Please email DAS contact at name@dir.ca.gov 10 of days prior to the meeting. Any requests received after this date will be given consideration, but logistical constraints may not allow for their fulfillment. Use (Voice) Dial 711 for California Relay if needed for phone usage.
September 2025