Workplace Accommodations & Section 503 Compliance for Federal Contractors
Navigate workplace accommodations and Section 503 compliance with practical guidance designed for federal contractors. DirectEmployers Association helps employers strengthen disability employment practices, evaluate accessibility and accommodation processes, and better understand applicable OFCCP requirements. Through expert support, education, and trusted partner resources, employers can strengthen their HR compliance practices while improving candidate and employee experiences across the workplace.
Our Workplace Accommodations & Section 503 Compliance Support
Comprehensive HR compliance, accommodation guidance, education, and outreach resources for federal contractors building disability inclusive employment programs.
Section 503 Support
Get guidance for Section 503 obligations, disability inclusion practices, outreach expectations, and reasonable accommodation considerations designed for federal contractors and subcontractors managing OFCCP compliance requirements.
Access scalable HR compliance support, documentation assistance, and expert guidance for managing complex federal contractor obligations related to Section 503.
Connect with hand-vetted veteran, disability, and community-based organizations while documenting and assessing partner relationships, communications, and outreach activities.
Expand job visibility through delivery to vetted community-based organizations serving individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other job seekers, with reporting to document outreach efforts.
Connect with a vetted network of vocational rehabilitation counselors and representatives through automated job delivery to strengthen disability recruitment, outreach, and talent pipelines.
Workplace accommodation and Section 503 programs work best when policy, process, outreach, and documentation are aligned. DirectEmployers Association brings more than 25 years of OFCCP compliance experience, certified ADA guidance, and trusted partner relationships together in one member-driven model. From program reviews to education and practical support, we help federal contractors build accessible, accountable, and disability inclusive employment practices.
Trusted By Employers
Member Success
Trusted by leading employers navigating OFCCP compliance, recruitment, and disability inclusion at scale.
"The member support team at DirectEmployers Association has been outstanding. They're patient and let us learn at our own speed. I find the training and demonstrations have been easily followed and comprehensive, guiding us through the platform effectively. The initial setup was turn key. DirectEmployers Association is much more capable..."
David W.
"My company switched over to DirectEmployers a little over a year ago and it has been one of our best moves yet! As Federal Contractors we must adhere to a plethora of compliance regulations and this platform allows us to do so with ease. Also they have extraordinary webinars! The..."
Verified User in Government Administration
"I like the simplicity of DirectEmployers Association and how it lets me take a hands-off approach once everything is set up. The account managers are engaged and willing to help whenever needed. The initial setup was very simple, and I really appreciate these aspects of the service."
Brad L.
"We have had the best transition experience ever. Everyone on the team was amazing and made it as seamless as possible. We have our crossposting set up and are notified if something seems off. We have access to all of our outreach and reporting efforts and the platform is incredibly..."
Ashley H.
"What I like best is the peace of mind that comes from their deep expertise in VEVRAA and Section 503 regulations. They don't just provide a platform; they provide guidance, ensuring our job feeds are distributed to the required state and federal job boards correctly and efficiently. This expertise, combined..."
Errin R.
"I appreciate the strong partnership DirectEmployers Association provides for navigating a complex and evolving compliance landscape. Their tools and resources are invaluable for operationalizing compliance, helping to significantly reduce risk and providing confidence that compliance requirements are being met."
Stephanie W.
"What I appreciate most about DirectEmployers Association is their strong commitment to supporting employers through innovative compliance and recruitment solutions. The team is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping members succeed."
Gaby W.
"I love the fact that DirectEmployers Association is constantly checking in on us without micromanagement. They genuinely reach out to ask how they can help, whether we need new training, or if there's anything else they can do for us. It's refreshing compared to the typical sales calls, as they..."
Kristin G.
"I rely on DirectEmployers Association to handle OFCCP compliance and manage outreach through tools like PRM and the partner library, which saves me from having to oversee these tasks directly. I like the collaboration and analytics features that help me view job performance effectively. Initial setup was very easy."
Nicole M.
"I really appreciate DirectEmployers Association for their great customer service. They are always willing to train and go the extra mile for us. Also, when we reach out for a partnership and don't get a response, they investigate to update the appropriate contacts in their system and provide other options..."
Jennifer C.
"I've worked with DirectEmployers at several companies now, and each time we renew or bring them on and have a chance to review competitors, there's just no other entity that can do what they do to the extent that they do it.
"
Verified User in Hospital & Health Care
"The member support team at DirectEmployers Association has been outstanding. They're patient and let us learn at our own speed. I find the training and demonstrations have been easily followed and comprehensive, guiding us through the platform effectively. The initial setup was turn key. DirectEmployers Association is much more capable..."
David W.
"My company switched over to DirectEmployers a little over a year ago and it has been one of our best moves yet! As Federal Contractors we must adhere to a plethora of compliance regulations and this platform allows us to do so with ease. Also they have extraordinary webinars! The..."
Verified User in Government Administration
"I like the simplicity of DirectEmployers Association and how it lets me take a hands-off approach once everything is set up. The account managers are engaged and willing to help whenever needed. The initial setup was very simple, and I really appreciate these aspects of the service."
Brad L.
"We have had the best transition experience ever. Everyone on the team was amazing and made it as seamless as possible. We have our crossposting set up and are notified if something seems off. We have access to all of our outreach and reporting efforts and the platform is incredibly..."
Ashley H.
"What I like best is the peace of mind that comes from their deep expertise in VEVRAA and Section 503 regulations. They don't just provide a platform; they provide guidance, ensuring our job feeds are distributed to the required state and federal job boards correctly and efficiently. This expertise, combined..."
Errin R.
"I appreciate the strong partnership DirectEmployers Association provides for navigating a complex and evolving compliance landscape. Their tools and resources are invaluable for operationalizing compliance, helping to significantly reduce risk and providing confidence that compliance requirements are being met."
Stephanie W.
"What I appreciate most about DirectEmployers Association is their strong commitment to supporting employers through innovative compliance and recruitment solutions. The team is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping members succeed."
Gaby W.
"I love the fact that DirectEmployers Association is constantly checking in on us without micromanagement. They genuinely reach out to ask how they can help, whether we need new training, or if there's anything else they can do for us. It's refreshing compared to the typical sales calls, as they..."
Kristin G.
"I rely on DirectEmployers Association to handle OFCCP compliance and manage outreach through tools like PRM and the partner library, which saves me from having to oversee these tasks directly. I like the collaboration and analytics features that help me view job performance effectively. Initial setup was very easy."
Nicole M.
"I really appreciate DirectEmployers Association for their great customer service. They are always willing to train and go the extra mile for us. Also, when we reach out for a partnership and don't get a response, they investigate to update the appropriate contacts in their system and provide other options..."
Jennifer C.
"I've worked with DirectEmployers at several companies now, and each time we renew or bring them on and have a chance to review competitors, there's just no other entity that can do what they do to the extent that they do it.
"
Verified User in Hospital & Health Care
"The member support team at DirectEmployers Association has been outstanding. They're patient and let us learn at our own speed. I find the training and demonstrations have been easily followed and comprehensive, guiding us through the platform effectively. The initial setup was turn key. DirectEmployers Association is much more capable..."
David W.
"My company switched over to DirectEmployers a little over a year ago and it has been one of our best moves yet! As Federal Contractors we must adhere to a plethora of compliance regulations and this platform allows us to do so with ease. Also they have extraordinary webinars! The..."
Verified User in Government Administration
"I like the simplicity of DirectEmployers Association and how it lets me take a hands-off approach once everything is set up. The account managers are engaged and willing to help whenever needed. The initial setup was very simple, and I really appreciate these aspects of the service."
Brad L.
"We have had the best transition experience ever. Everyone on the team was amazing and made it as seamless as possible. We have our crossposting set up and are notified if something seems off. We have access to all of our outreach and reporting efforts and the platform is incredibly..."
Ashley H.
"What I like best is the peace of mind that comes from their deep expertise in VEVRAA and Section 503 regulations. They don't just provide a platform; they provide guidance, ensuring our job feeds are distributed to the required state and federal job boards correctly and efficiently. This expertise, combined..."
Errin R.
"I appreciate the strong partnership DirectEmployers Association provides for navigating a complex and evolving compliance landscape. Their tools and resources are invaluable for operationalizing compliance, helping to significantly reduce risk and providing confidence that compliance requirements are being met."
Stephanie W.
"What I appreciate most about DirectEmployers Association is their strong commitment to supporting employers through innovative compliance and recruitment solutions. The team is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping members succeed."
Gaby W.
"I love the fact that DirectEmployers Association is constantly checking in on us without micromanagement. They genuinely reach out to ask how they can help, whether we need new training, or if there's anything else they can do for us. It's refreshing compared to the typical sales calls, as they..."
Kristin G.
"I rely on DirectEmployers Association to handle OFCCP compliance and manage outreach through tools like PRM and the partner library, which saves me from having to oversee these tasks directly. I like the collaboration and analytics features that help me view job performance effectively. Initial setup was very easy."
Nicole M.
"I really appreciate DirectEmployers Association for their great customer service. They are always willing to train and go the extra mile for us. Also, when we reach out for a partnership and don't get a response, they investigate to update the appropriate contacts in their system and provide other options..."
Jennifer C.
"I've worked with DirectEmployers at several companies now, and each time we renew or bring them on and have a chance to review competitors, there's just no other entity that can do what they do to the extent that they do it.
"
Verified User in Hospital & Health Care
The DirectEmployers Difference
Why Choose DirectEmployers Association?
DirectEmployers Association combines compliance expertise, education, and member-focused support.
Compliance Authority
Built for federal contractors with deep OFCCP knowledge and over 25 years of compliance focus.
Member Driven
A nonprofit, member-owned association focused on employer success rather than profit-driven vendor relationships.
ADA Expertise
Access in-house ADA guidance, program reviews, training, and practical disability inclusion insights.
Trusted Network
Leverage hand-vetted national partners supporting outreach across all 50 states and U.S. territories.
Meet Our Team
Helping employers connect with the right compliance solutions, disability inclusion guidance, and support.
AJ Selvey
VP, Membership Development
AJ Selvey is Vice President of Membership Development at DirectEmployers Association, where he leads the Membership Development, Member Engagement, and Quality Assurance teams. Since joining the Association in 2010, he has drawn on more than 20 years of experience in recruitment, staffing, sales, compliance, and human capital management to guide Members and prospects. His expertise includes job listing syndication, veteran recruitment, search and mobile optimization, recruiting technology, and VEVRAA and Section 503 compliance. AJ holds a BA from Hanover College. Outside work, he enjoys time with his wife and four daughters, cheering from the soccer sidelines, and golfing.
Dee Anne Faller
Regional VP, Membership Development
Dee Anne Faller is Regional Vice President of Membership Development at DirectEmployers Association, where she has served Members since 2007. She helps employers strengthen recruitment strategies, streamline processes, and address VEVRAA and Section 503 compliance through collaboration and practical tools. Before joining DirectEmployers, Dee Anne was a project manager at RenoSys Corporation and helped build her family’s women-owned Handyman Connection franchise, managing 15 contractors. She holds a BA in General Studies from IUPUI and a human resources certificate from Purdue University. Outside work, she enjoys renovation projects, including mudding, taping, sanding, and demolition.
Greg Clements
Regional VP, Membership Development
Greg Clements is Regional Vice President of Membership Development at DirectEmployers Association, where he has spent 14 years helping Members strengthen recruitment and compliance strategies. Drawing on his knowledge of VEVRAA and Section 503 regulations, Greg advises employers on lowering cost per hire, improving recruitment through search and mobile solutions, and using reporting tools to support OFCCP compliance. Raised in a rural farming community, he brings a strong work ethic and practical, service-focused approach to every relationship. Greg takes pride in ensuring Members receive attentive support, achieve their goals, and have solutions that make their work more efficient.
Callie Gable
Regional VP, Membership Development
Callie Gable is Regional Vice President of Membership Development at DirectEmployers Association, where she helps Members maximize their membership and navigate federal contractor obligations. Her background spans sales, operations, digital recruitment marketing, employer branding, healthcare recruiting, and medical practice management, where she led up to 50 employees. She also contributed to a SaaS startup pilot with the Washington State Department of Labor. Callie holds degrees in business administration and communications from Indiana Wesleyan University. Outside work, she enjoys time with her husband and three daughters and sharing her lifelong love of horseback riding with them.
Neil Donovan
Regional VP, Membership Development
Neil Donovan is Regional Vice President of Membership Development at DirectEmployers Association. He advises Members across industries on VEVRAA and Section 503 outreach, recruitment compliance, and strategies for expanding the reach of their employment opportunities online. Neil brings more than 20 years of internet recruitment experience, including seven and a half years with DirectEmployers subsidiary Recruit Rooster. His guidance helps organizations connect recruitment goals with solutions tailored to their needs. Outside work, Neil enjoys time with his daughter, attending IU, Colts, Pacers, Notre Dame, and Cubs games, and watching historical and true-crime documentaries.
Michelle Krefft, M.S.
Disability & Community Outreach Specialist
Michelle Krefft, M.S. is the Disability & Community Outreach Specialist at DirectEmployers Association. In this role, she works within the Strategic Partnerships team to build relationships with disability organizations that can support DirectEmployers Members looking to advance disability employment outcomes internally and conduct outreach for OFCCP compliance purposes. She is also available to help educate DirectEmployers Members on how they can work with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselors nationwide to promote diversity and inclusion within their organizations for better recruitment and retention of individuals with disabilities. She brings 24 years of experience to her role with DirectEmployers, having spent the entirety of her time with Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services where she held various titles ranging from Career Counselor to Bureau Chief of Business Engagement. She was also a National Employment Team (NET) point of contact with the Council of State Administrator Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR) for 18 years. Through these roles, she was able to help employers become disability friendly workplaces and assisted in the placement of qualified applicants in roles within these inclusive organizations. She also built the business engagement division, developing policies and procedures, conducting hiring and training, and more. Michelle holds a Masters of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Drake University and is a Certified ADA Coordinator. Advancing her skills and certifications, she graduated from NRLI (National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute) in 2022 and received the National Rehabilitation Association (NRA) Job placement professional of the year award. In addition, she served as the disability subject matter expert on the Greater Des Moines Partnership Inclusion Council for 16 years. In her free time, she can be found at the gym, shopping, or having coffee with friends. Her and her husband share a joy of traveling, taking many mini trips stateside, with one, exciting international trip each year. She is also a proud mother, with a son soon to enter medical school.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Job Accommodation Network (JAN)?
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is a free resource that provides practical guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Employers can use JAN to explore accommodation ideas, assistive technology, job modifications, and considerations related to the interactive process and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). DirectEmployers Association complements resources such as JAN with guidance, program reviews, education, and compliance-focused resources related to federal contractor obligations and Section 503.
What is Section 503 compliance for federal contractors?
Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act requires covered federal contractors and subcontractors to take affirmative action to employ and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and to provide equal employment opportunity without discrimination based on disability. Depending on the contractor’s coverage and circumstances, compliance may include disability-focused outreach and recruitment, self-identification processes, reasonable accommodation practices, and evaluation of affirmative action efforts.
What counts as a workplace accommodation?
A workplace accommodation is a reasonable change to a job, work environment, schedule, process, or tool that enables an individual with a disability to perform essential job functions, access employment opportunities, or enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment. Examples include modified equipment, assistive technology, flexible scheduling, accessible application processes, or adjustments to communication methods. Strong accommodation practices also support a consistent process for receiving and evaluating requests and engaging in the interactive process.
How can federal contractors prepare for OFCCP reviews?
Federal contractors should review accommodation policies, applicant and employee accessibility, outreach activities and documentation, and disability inclusion program effectiveness. OFCCP expectations can involve demonstrating good faith efforts, maintaining records, and showing meaningful engagement with disability-focused partners. DirectEmployers Association provides expert guidance, education, and tools that help employers prepare for compliance challenges and audits.
How does DirectEmployers Association support accommodation programs?
DirectEmployers Association supports employers with Section 503 compliance guidance, disability inclusion resources, program reviews, expert training, and access to trusted partner networks. Members can also leverage solutions such as VocRehab+, OFCCP compliance products, and education opportunities to strengthen outreach, documentation, and inclusive hiring practices. Support is designed for HR compliance and talent acquisition teams.
What is VocRehab+ used for?
VocRehab+ connects employers with a vetted network of vocational rehabilitation counselors and representatives through automated delivery of local job listings. These relationships can help federal contractors expand disability outreach, build stronger talent pipelines, and document meaningful engagement efforts. For organizations managing Section 503 obligations, structured partner relationships can support both HR compliance readiness and authentic disability inclusion across recruiting and employment practices.
Can you help with an OFCCP audit?
Yes. DirectEmployers Association provides guidance, training, and support for employers facing OFCCP compliance challenges or audits. While every review is fact-specific, members benefit from experienced compliance professionals, program review insights, and practical resources built around federal contractor requirements. This support helps teams understand documentation expectations, outreach obligations, and opportunities to improve disability inclusion processes.
What support is included for members?
Membership includes access to HR compliance-focused VEVRAA and Section 503 solutions, expert compliance advice, unlimited product support, peer-driven education, resources for job visibility, outreach management tools, and recruitment marketing. The association’s nonprofit, member-driven model is designed to prioritize service and long-term employer success.
Still Have Compliance Questions?
Get practical guidance from our compliance and disability inclusion team.
Recognized & Trusted
Awards and Recognition
Central Indiana Top Workplaces
Recognized by The Indianapolis Star as a Top Workplace for six consecutive years, reflecting a strong employee culture and people-first workplace.
Stevie® Awards for Sales & Customer Service
Three consecutive years of Bronze recognition for customer service excellence, honoring the Member Engagement team's high-touch support.
Stevie® American Business Awards®
Silver recognition for the Member Engagement team's service excellence, along with Gold and Bronze honors recognizing DEAMcon's standout event experience.
Strengthen Your Workplace Accommodation and Section 503 Compliance Programs
Tell us about your Section 503, workplace accommodation, or disability inclusion priorities, and our team will help identify the right solutions and support options.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 866.268.6206.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 866.268.6206.