Adulting with AT: Tools for Your First Job & Beyond | Where It's AT. The Ability Tools Blog.

Welcome to the final post in “Adulting with AT,” our blog series following the Your Future, Your Tools webinar!

So far, we’ve covered how AT supports learning and independent living. Now, we’re heading into the workplace, because adulting includes jobs, internships, and launching your career. Whether you’re applying for your first job, starting a new position, or figuring out how to request accommodations, AT can help you thrive on the job. We’ll also introduce you to the Job Accommodation Network (JAN), an incredible free resource that helps workers and employers find solutions that actually work.

A smiling wheelchair user with vibrant purple and pink hair works on a laptop on her lap. Besides text reads: “Where It’s AT – The Ability Tools Blog.” “Adulting with AT: Tools for Your First Job & Beyond” with “AbilityTools.org” below.

AT That Supports You at Work

Whether it’s organizing your tasks, communicating with your team, or staying focused, there’s an AT tool that can help you do your job more comfortably and confidently.

Three colleagues, including a wheelchair user, gathered around a table in a modern office setting.

Organization & Productivity

Work can get hectic: emails, meetings, deadlines, and all the little things in between. AT tools can help you stay organized, manage your time, and keep track of what needs to get done without feeling overwhelmed.

Black fidget toy that clicks open and spins.

Digital planners and task management apps help you stay on top of assignments, projects, or rotating shifts.
Speech-to-text software makes it easier to send emails or take notes if typing is tiring or difficult.
Screen readers, magnifiers, and voice navigation tools support access to computer systems or websites.
Noise-canceling headphones, timers, and fidget tools can help manage focus in busy office or open work environments.

Many of these tools can be used discreetly, and most can be set up on your own phone, tablet, or computer.

Ergonomic Devices

Comfort and posture matter, especially if you’re working long hours at a desk, on a computer, or doing repetitive tasks. Ergonomic tools can reduce strain, improve focus, and help prevent pain or injury over time.

Side-by-side comparison of good and bad sitting posture at a computer desk.

Here are a few workplace-friendly ergonomic supports:

Ergonomic keyboards and mice – Designed to reduce wrist and hand strain, especially helpful for repetitive typing tasks.
Adjustable chairs and lumbar cushions – Provide better back support and encourage healthy sitting posture.
Standing desks or desk risers – Offer flexibility to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day.
Footrests – Support proper leg alignment and reduce lower back tension when seated.
Document holders or slant boards – Bring paperwork up to eye level to reduce neck strain while reading or referencing materials.
Keyboard wrist supports – Help maintain a neutral wrist position to prevent fatigue or pain.

These tools aren’t just about comfort, they can help you stay more focused, alert, and productive on the job.

Getting Accommodations at Work

You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. That’s where JAN comes in.

Meet the Job Accommodation Network (JAN)

JAN is a free national resource that helps people with disabilities and employers find workplace accommodations that really work. Whether you’re unsure what to ask for or your boss has questions about what’s reasonable, JAN can help.

They offer a range of free services including:

1:1 consultations where you can speak directly with a specialist about specific workplace needs or scenarios.
They provide clear, up-to-date information on the ADA and related laws, helping people understand what’s required and what’s possible.
They also do training and outreach, including webinars and customized presentations for employers and professionals.
JAN’s website is also packed with extensive resources, including their Situations & Solutions Finder which gives real examples of accommodations for different disabilities and job roles.

Best part? You don’t have to disclose your disability to them, they’ll help you brainstorm before you talk to your employer.

Contact JAN:

Website: AskJAN.org
Voice: 1-800-526-7234
TTY: 1-877-781-9403
Email: [email protected]

Want More Work Tools?

Check out our webinar, From Campus to Career: Tools to Thrive in the Workplace, where we highlight real-world AT examples and workplace scenarios. You can also dive deeper with our follow-up blogs:

Tech-ing Charge of Your Career with AT – Tools for exploring and obtaining employment
Step into Work with the Right AT Support – Covers funding, training, and self-advocacy resources

Text reads "Campus to Career: Tools to Thrive in the Workplace" featuring a man using a power wheelchair with adaptive technology, alongside logos for Ability Tools, CFILC, DOR, Ticket to Work, and Advocacy.

These are packed with tips to help you feel more prepared as you transition into the workforce.

Starting work is exciting and sometimes overwhelming. That’s totally normal. Whether you’re working in retail, a nonprofit, a tech job, or something else entirely, AT can help reduce barriers and boost your independence. You’ve got this, and your tools have your back!