W. Francis Fung is the National Manager, Rehabilitation and Clinical Services at March of Dimes Canada, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting people with disabilities. He co-leads IDEA’s Hub 2, Employment Support Systems.

Fung has overseen various pre-employment services in the private and public sector designed for low-income residents, new immigrants, individuals who have experienced homelessness, and people with a wide range of disabilities. He joined March of Dimes in 2011, where he was previously the National Manager, Rehabilitation and Training and the Employment Services Manager for the Hamilton/Niagara region. Before March of Dimes, he held various positions as a vocational evaluation and career services specialist at JVS Toronto and VPI Inc.

Fung has 20 years of practical experience in psychometric testing, extensive knowledge in program development, and formal training in research methods, leadership and management. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Assessment, Vocational Evaluation and Work Adjustment Society and the College of Vocational Rehabilitation Professionals.

Fung has a Master’s in education, community rehabilitation and disability studies from the University of Calgary, and a BSc in psychology from Trent University. He holds a number of designations and certifications related to vocational rehabilitation and evaluation, as well as disability management (e.g. CDMP, CVRP, ICVE, RRP, RVP).

“Having the opportunity to be part of this transformative project is one of the highlights of my 20-year career in vocational rehabilitation and employment services. Everyone involved with IDEA understands that in order to create an inclusive, barrier-free employment landscape, it is essential to collaborate closely with people who have lived experience. I am grateful to the members of various disability communities who are sharing their insights with the scientists, industry and labour leaders, as well as other stakeholders that IDEA brings together. The issues and opportunities these communities are identifying will inform every strategic, solution-focused action we implement. I am confident that, by working together, we will succeed in creating a more equitable workforce where everyone can thrive.”