Navigating the corporate world is challenging enough, but it can be especially difficult for autistic adults. According to the Autism Society, there are 5.4 million autistic adults in the US and among those with a college degree, up to 85% are either unemployed or underemployed. Additionally, autistic adults on average earn 40% less than their peers with other disabilities, and only 30% on average say they disclose they’re autistic to their employer, according to data from auticon, a leading employer of autistic adults in technology and provider of neuroinclusion services.
That’s why auticon started the Auticon Training Institute (ATI), a US nonprofit offering structured IT and tech training pathways, certifications, internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities free of charge for autistic adults, empowering them to start careers in software engineering, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more. In partnership with auticon, they also offer extensive training for organizations to become more neuroinclusive, creating welcoming environments for neurodiverse talent.
A large majority of autistic people, around 85%, report they enjoy the work they do, however only 44% say they feel they can be their authentic selves at work. This leads to burnout and adds unnecessary burdens to neurodiverse workers, often leading them to struggle to sustain their careers. But there are steps organizations can take to create a more welcoming environment for neurodivergent workers, and understand what makes them thrive at work so they can reveal their full potential.