Since 2015, Froedtert Health has been offering Project SEARCH internships, a program designed to provide adults with disabilities a path to employment through competitive wages. The program aims for year-round job placement, focusing on giving participants the tools and skills necessary to succeed in a professional environment. In collaboration with TransCen Inc./Creative Employment Opportunities, Froedtert provides interns with nine months of comprehensive training that includes classroom learning, career exploration and job skills development. Interns rotate across various departments such as Supply Chain, Food and Nutrition Services, Pharmacy, and Sports Medicine, gaining hands-on experience on the hospital campus.

The Project SEARCH initiative not only benefits the interns but also contributes positively to the overall work environment at Froedtert Health. The program has fostered a more inclusive workplace, with department leaders noting the positive impact interns have on team dynamics. Their enthusiasm and resilience enhance the work culture, creating a more collaborative and supportive environment for both interns and staff. The program’s success has made a lasting impact on staff morale and team cohesion, encouraging a diverse and accepting workforce.

Project SEARCH at Froedtert Health aligns with the organization's broader goals of addressing healthcare workforce shortages while promoting health, education and financial stability. By providing a platform for individuals with disabilities to develop the skills needed for long-term employment, the program has contributed to filling critical roles within the healthcare sector. Dozens of graduates from Project SEARCH have gone on to secure jobs within the Froedtert Health system and with other Project SEARCH partners, reinforcing the program’s success in facilitating meaningful, sustainable employment opportunities for people with disabilities.