More companies are considering people with intellectual disabilities not only for jobs, but careers. But the number is still anemic. Only about 31 percent of people with such disabilities are employed, said Jon Colman, chief operating officer of the National Down Syndrome Society.

These companies are finding nothing but a loyal, diligent employee base. “It’s hard to get employers to imagine that people with impairments actually can fit into a busy 24/7 workplace,’’ said Cathy Healy, director of workforce and education programs with the Institute for a Competitive Workforce, an affiliate of the US Chamber of Commerce. “When you see it in action, it’s so amazing.’’

Healy is working to show employers that adults with disabilities make up a large pool of workers. “Lots of research tells us that people with disabilities, particularly intellectual disabilities, have great staying power,’’ she said. “These employees are loyal. They are hard workers, people pleasers, and they want to stay employed.’’

David Egan, 29, has been with Booz Allen Hamilton for 10 years. He works as a distribution clerk and is “proud to be a part of that team.” Egan, who has Down syndrome, also is active in the Special Olympics, an organisation that Booz supports. “They like to have employees come together to show team spirit. Here at Booz Allen, we also talk about core values a lot,’’ Egan said. “I try to fit what we do as a company and what I do outside the company.’’

—Los Angeles Times / amyjoyce