David Murahashi (He/Him)

David Murahashi is a Training and Technical Assistance Manager at Wise, bringing both professional expertise and personal lived experience to his work in the disability community. He has been connected to the disability world his entire life, growing up alongside his sister with Down syndrome and later surviving a significant brain injury. These experiences have shaped his empathy, advocacy, and commitment to ensuring people with disabilities live full, meaningful lives.

David began his journey in disability services as a job coach in School to Work programs, which inspired him to earn a degree in Special Education from Seattle Pacific University in 2012. In 2014, he became a Wise associate, developing innovative programs such as Start Now—a curriculum that helps individuals and families begin planning for employment early—and Next, which supports individuals transitioning out of sheltered workshops. These programs have been adopted across Washington and other states.

Since 2019, David has facilitated Person-Centered Plans (PCP) using a calm, compassionate approach and creative techniques from MAPS, PATH, 5 Circles, Person-Centered Employment Planning methods, and graphic tools from The Grove. His work helps individuals find their voice and pursue their dreams.

Since joining Wise full-time in 2022, David has played a key role across several initiatives. He is an active member of the Wise PCP, WOA 100, and WLC teams and serves as the project manager for the REACH program. David leads a wide range of trainings, including Plan to Placement, PCP, and the Start Now and Next programs. In addition, he provides ongoing technical assistance to educators, agencies, and individuals navigating School to Work and competitive integrated employment.

Outside of Wise, he has held board positions with Washington APSE and Trillium Employment Services. In 2023, he was honored with the APSE Employment Advocate Award.

David believes that with the right support, everyone has the right and ability to live, learn, work, and play in their community.