Abstract

The study examined how employers of companies in Massachusetts perceive the integration of persons with disabilities in the workplace. These employers were asked questions specifically regarding the factors influencing their willingness to employ persons with disabilities, employers' perceptions of their performance, and the challenges associated with working with persons with disabilities. A quantitative approach using three companies as case studies was adopted. The study purposively selected thirty (30) key respondents, including managers and supervisors of the companies chosen. The main instrument for the primary data collection was a questionnaire with more closed-ended and a few open-ended questions. The study found that employers perceived persons with disabilities as hardworking with a low record of absenteeism. Additionally, inclusivity, the creation of opportunities, breaking employment barriers, and previous experience working with persons with disabilities were the major factors influencing employers' willingness to employ persons with disabilities. However, the study observed several challenges associated with working with persons with disabilities, including misunderstanding, physical accessibility, the requirement of continuous coaching, and the requirement of on-the-job training. The study recommends that companies increase the number of persons with disabilities that they employ, as the overall percentage was less than 30%.