This month, 32 students graduated from the Project SEARCH program across four UPMC hospitals. As they step into their futures, they are ready to build careers, serve their communities and follow their goals. Many graduates have secured jobs at UPMC and beyond, while others are actively applying and participating in hiring processes.
- At UPMC Mercy, nine students graduated. Two have started jobs, while several have completed interviews.
- At UPMC Jameson, nine students graduated. Five have gotten jobs at various companies.
- At UPMC Chautauqua, seven students graduated, their largest class to date. Five graduates are employed, and one will be joining UPMC Chautauqua’s Environmental Services department.
- At UPMC Hamot, seven students graduated. Two have been offered positions at UPMC Hamot, and the others are actively applying to positions inside and outside UPMC.
While the new graduates celebrated their accomplishment, one familiar face at UPMC Hamot marked a milestone of his own: one year at UPMC. Devin Levy, food service attendant, a 2024 Project SEARCH graduate, is proof of how much can happen in a year.
During his time in the program, Devin rotated through several hospital departments, gaining hands-on experience. “When I started in food service, I mastered tray passing so quickly,” said Devin. “I felt prepared for this role after trying multiple jobs.”
Day-to-day, Devin delivers meals to patients around the hospital, collects dishes and trays and breaks them down and stacks clean trays. “The staff is so friendly and kind,” said Devin. “Everyone on the units — nurses, patient care technicians, nursing assistants, doctors and even the patients — really like me a lot.”
“I love working at UPMC Hamot,” Devin wrote to his colleagues on his one-year anniversary. “My best memories are the picnic events we have outside in the summer.” While he is looking forward to spending time outside with his colleagues, what excites Devin most is the chance to keep learning. As Devin continues his career, his goal is to try all the jobs in the kitchen, from tray line to becoming a cashier.
At UPMC, Project SEARCH prepares and trains students with disabilities for long-term employment, while serving their communities. UPMC partners with Vocational and Psychological Services, Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, local school districts and community rehabilitation programs.
Students participating in the one-year program report to their respective hospitals daily to attend classroom-style instruction and rotational programs. Rotational programs ensure all students who participate find a career that aligns with their individual preferences and skills.
Learn more about Project SEARCH at UPMC.
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