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Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is proud to announce the launch of ABILITYWorks, a new workforce readiness program designed to provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with meaningful pathways to employment and long-term career success.
Developed under South Carolina’s Intellectual and Developmental Disability Workforce Pilot, ABILITYWorks will serve Horry and Georgetown counties through a cohort-based, workforce education model for individuals ages 18 and older who have exited high school.
The program is funded through support from the South Carolina Legislative Delegation and reflects HGTC’s continued commitment to expanding workforce opportunities for underserved populations while supporting the evolving employment needs of the region.
ABILITYWorks is designed to equip participants with workforce readiness skills through structured, skill-based education focused on career foundations, core workforce training, advanced skills development, workplace readiness, mentorship, job placement, employment transition, and retention support.
Participants will receive hands-on workforce preparation aligned with employment opportunities in areas such as hospitality and tourism, customer service, housekeeping, greeter services, and other workforce support roles that continue to experience demand throughout the Grand Strand region.
Upon successful completion of course requirements, participants will receive HGTC Workforce Development certificates recognizing foundational workforce readiness skills aligned with industry expectations.
“ABILITYWorks speaks volumes about what Horry-Georgetown Technical College does above and beyond traditional education,” said Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. “This program reflects our mission to serve all members of our community through workforce development, opportunity, and support that changes lives. We are proud to create pathways that help individuals gain independence, confidence, and employment.”
ABILITYWorks is being led by Jennifer Ainsworth, coordinator and instructor for the program. A native of McColl, South Carolina, Ainsworth holds a Bachelor of Science in special education from Presbyterian College and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Walden University. She is a National Board-Certified special education teacher with 18 years of experience at Socastee High School in Horry County Schools and was named the 2015 South Carolina State Teacher of the Year.
Ainsworth also serves as executive director of Maria’s Kids, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on expanding social and vocational opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through real-world learning experiences and community connection.
“ABILITYWorks is about empowering individuals with the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to succeed in the workplace and in life,” said Ainsworth. “Our goal is to help participants transition into competitive, integrated employment while building connections that encourage long-term success.”
HGTC plans to host an informational open house event later this year for prospective students, families, community partners, and employers interested in learning more about the program and available opportunities.
ABILITYWorks aligns with HGTC’s Workforce Development initiative by supporting local businesses, strengthening the regional workforce pipeline, and expanding access to employment training opportunities throughout the community.
For more information about ABILITYWorks, contact Jennifer Ainsworth, coordinator and instructor at HGTC, at 843-349-5306.