Our Story

It’s been more than  a year since the  world as we knew it stopped and our lives shifted to the virtual setting. While adapting to the virtual life,  we began to think about how this change in the work environment could positively impact some people, especially those who had previously faced barriers to accessibility in the traditional office setting. Do physical disabilities really pose a significant constraint in the workplace, especially in design and technology, or is it that our physical spaces create unnecessary barriers to inclusivity? Have we become too complacent with our preconceptions about the office and the workplace, overlooking and even stifling the possibilities of strong performance regardless of one’s physical limitations?

The groundwork of SIDT was set by the shifting landscape created by the pandemic and the school was established as a NYS charitable organization for educational purposes in December 2020, organized around a foundational belief that now is the time to establish vocational training environments for students with physical disabilities in design and technology. As remote work becomes more pervasive  after COVID-19, SIDT can help create opportunities for physically challenged students to emit their creativity and strength without prejudice or  restrictions.

We are a disciplined group of professionals with passion for education. With insight into each student’s strengths and limitations, we provide customized vocational training and career support. Our goal is to help students build confidence and competence by acquiring ready-to-use technical skills to start their career. We help students develop a foundation to achieve life and career goals by identifying each student’s needs and adding value to help them become a professional in their field.

Our mission is to foster an environment in which students with physical disabilities will find purpose and work toward meaningful careers. We are here to assist the transition from education to professional careers, and ultimately help our graduates play an even greater role in society, overcoming physical barriers that once defined the workplace and fully applying their talents and developed skills to the workforce.  

All human beings have the right to work and the right to an education to pursue their dream. 

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Soohee Lee
Founder/President
San Institute of Design and Technology

SIDT is a  501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Your donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.