While finding a job can be challenging for many individuals, adults with autism face unique challenges. Approximately 5.4 million persons in the United States have autism, and even those with college degrees have difficulty finding employment. In actuality, up to 85% of people are either unemployed or employed in positions that aren’t a good fit for their skills. On average, autistic workers earn less than others with disabilities, and many don’t feel comfortable telling their employers that they are autistic.
To help with this, a company called Auticon created the Auticon Training Institute (ATI). This nonprofit program offers free training, certifications, internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities to help autistic adults start careers in technology. Among other things, they can learn cybersecurity, data analysis, and software engineering. Additionally, the initiative assists companies in embracing employees with neurodiverse traits.
Less than half of autistic employees believe they can be themselves at work, despite the fact that many of them enjoy their professions. It may become more difficult for them to maintain their occupations as a result of stress and burnout. However, companies can make small changes to create a more supportive environment, allowing autistic professionals to succeed.
One of the goals of auction is to provide job opportunities to people who have struggled to break into the tech industry. At the same time, they help businesses build more inclusive workplaces. In 2021, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals partnered with ATI to hire a group of autistic interns. These interns worked on a major data project, making sure important information was accurate and followed all the rules.
Bob McCowan, a senior leader at Regeneron, understands the value of hiring in a different way. He himself didn’t take a traditional path into tech—he started as an apprentice electrician before going back to school and eventually moving into biotechnology. He believes that hiring people from different backgrounds makes a company stronger. Many businesses only hire from the same schools and groups of people, but McCowan sees the benefit of including those who think differently.
After learning about auticon and ATI, McCowan realized that working with them could help his company bring in fresh perspectives. The training provided by ATI is customized for each company, making sure that autistic interns learn the skills that employers need. The interns are also paid for their work, which makes the opportunity accessible to those who need an income while gaining experience.
Companies are starting to see that diversity leads to innovation. When people with different ways of thinking work together, they come up with more creative solutions to problems. This is why ATI’s program is so valuable—it not only trains autistic adults but also helps businesses become more inclusive.
Auticon also offers resources to help companies assess how inclusive they are and provides advice on how to improve workplace culture. They even train managers to better support autistic employees. One of the key parts of ATI’s success is the availability of job coaches. These coaches help interns with workplace challenges, such as understanding office communication, knowing what to expect at meetings, or figuring out what to wear for video calls.
As a data steward at Regeneron and an ATI intern, Jordan White has witnessed firsthand the value of this support. He had the flexibility he required as a freelancer before joining ATI. Although many businesses are unsure of how to effectively support individuals with autism, ATI helped his management by outlining the most effective ways to interact with him. His work experience went considerably more smoothly as a result of receiving clear instructions.
Brian Rodewald, another intern, attributes his skill development and exposure to other autistic experts in the field to ATI. His interest in technology began in high school when he took computer science classes. He found a community of people who share his experiences and learned new things about artificial intelligence and cybersecurity through ATI.
Small changes are sometimes necessary while managing autistic staff, but everyone gains from these adaptations. One Regeneron boss, for instance, saw that one of his interns needed more precise instructions. Following this change, he discovered that other team members valued more straightforward communication as well. These minor adjustments enhance communication, teamwork, and general workplace happiness.
The results speak for themselves. A report from auticon found that 96% of their business partners said autistic employees made valuable contributions, improving accuracy, bringing fresh ideas, and increasing efficiency. Additionally, 73% of companies noticed a positive cultural impact, with better teamwork, increased empathy, and clearer communication.
The objective is to make workplaces more inclusive in general, not merely to assist autistic professionals in adjusting to the workplace. Businesses may improve the working environment for all employees by promoting diverse communication styles and removing obstacles. Sometimes it’s as easy as giving clearer directions or paying attention to noise levels during meetings. These minor changes can have a significant impact, creating an environment at work where everyone is supported and feels appreciated. Businesses that accept neurodiversity grow more resilient, innovative, and prosperous.
Auticon’s approach ensures that both autistic professionals and businesses benefit from working together. For many autistic workers, traditional office environments can feel overwhelming due to unspoken rules and social expectations. Job coaches at ATI help bridge this gap by guiding interns through workplace interactions. They teach practical skills like time management and communication while helping businesses understand the needs of neurodivergent employees. For instance, some autistic professionals may struggle with networking or office conversations. ATI coaches provide advice on how to navigate these situations. At the same time, they educate employers on how to create a workplace where autistic employees feel comfortable. This two-way approach helps both the employees and the companies succeed.
Jordan White, for example, learned how to improve his time management and communication skills through the ATI program. He says that many companies don’t know how to support autistic professionals, but ATI helps bridge that gap by training both employees and managers.White had a significantly better work experience when his management improved his ability to provide clear directions.
By networking with other autistic professionals and developing his abilities, Brian Rodewald also gained from ATI. After beginning with programming, he went on to study cybersecurity. He claims that ATI gave him the encouragement he needed to push himself outside of his comfort zone. He also liked being a member of a group where he could learn from others and share his experiences.
Collaboration, communication, and creativity all enhance for businesses using auticon. Employing neurodiverse workers offers new ideas and distinctive problem-solving abilities, as many companies have discovered. Simple changes like giving clear instructions and minimizing distractions foster an atmosphere that supports the success of autistic professionals.
A boss of the organization even saw that other team members were grateful when an autistic employee requested more precise instructions. This demonstrates that increasing workplace inclusivity helps everyone, not just those with autism. All employees experience improved communication and increased job satisfaction as a result of these minor adjustments.
The significance of diversity in the workplace is emphasized by Auticon’s work. Because they are not accommodated by typical hiring procedures, many persons with autism struggle to find employment despite having great skills. Autism helps bridge this gap by training companies and employees and fostering a supportive work environment. Their programs not only help autistic individuals find meaningful careers but also help businesses become stronger and more innovative.
As more companies recognize the value of neurodiversity, they are taking steps to create inclusive workplaces. Simple adjustments, such as providing job coaches and clear communication, make a big difference. By embracing neurodiverse talent, companies can unlock new potential and create a more welcoming, successful work environment for everyone.
