Women Inspiring Nevada: Mary Brabant, Director of Disability & Volunteer Programming, Goodwill of Southern Nevada

Mary Brabant, Director of Disability & Volunteer Programming at Goodwill of Southern Nevada, has devoted much of her career to creating employment pathways for people with disabilities. In 1997, after a teacher asked her to develop workplace opportunities for two students, Brabant helped launch the organization’s Student Work Experience Program, which now serves about 600 students with disabilities annually in Clark and Nye counties. Beyond that initiative, Brabant has pioneered additional programs such as Community Based Training, Skills To Enable Personal Success and the Work Readiness Summer Program. These offerings give participants hands‑on experience, workplace skills and preparation for meaningful jobs. Her influence extends statewide; Brabant sits on the Nevada State Rehabilitation Council, where she works with educators, employers, state agencies and community groups to strengthen vocational rehabilitation and expand employment opportunities. She says her aim remains simple: to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive the support and chances they need to thrive in the workforce.