T-STEP – TEACCH School Transition to Employment and Postsecondary Education
The T-STEP Program is an evidence-based college class to help autistic students transition to adulthood. Through funding from the North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and research funding from the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program, the T-STEP is offered free of charge for 16-21-year-olds on the autism spectrum who will or have received the Future-Ready Core high school diploma. The program is offered across North Carolina at AB Tech, Alamance, Cape Fear, Central Piedmont, Guilford Tech, Johnston, Pitt, and Wake Tech Community Colleges.
Current Enrollment at the following sites:
Wilmington, NC Area
Fall 2025
Asheville, NC Area
Fall 2025
Charlotte, NC Area
Fall 2025
Raleigh, NC Area
The T-STEP was developed to support the transition to employment and post-secondary education. Participation includes skill instruction, group practice, video modeling, and role-plays. Students also receive individual career, higher education, and self-advocacy counseling. This program is available statewide in North Carolina.
Students participating in the T-STEP program will:
- Receive group and individualized sessions focused on skills to support transition to adulthood.
- Receive counseling in career exploration, higher education, and self-advocacy.
- Learn to identify skills, strengths, and supports they can use in post-secondary and employment settings.
