auticon US, a leading employer of autistic adults in technology and provider of neuroinclusion services, is excited to announce the launch of the auticon Training Institute (ATI), a new nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing autistic adults for technology careers. Building on auticon’s commitment to neurodiversity in tech, ATI’s tailored programs will empower autistic professionals to pursue careers in software engineering, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more. ATI offers structured training pathways, certifications, internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities—all free of charge for the trainees.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as many autistic adults remain unemployed or underemployed despite their potential to excel in the workforce. There are 5.4 million autistic adults In the U.S. Among those with a college degree, up to 85% are either unemployed or underemployed. Meanwhile, the technology sector faces a significant skills shortage. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 25% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This disconnect presents a unique opportunity for ATI to bridge the gap by equipping autistic adults with the technical skills and confidence needed to thrive in tech careers.
“Autistic individuals often have the ideal aptitudes and abilities for tech careers, but may lack the required technical skills or job experience to land their first role,” says Vance Checketts, CEO of auticon US and ATI Board President. “ATI exists to fill those gaps, creating a mutual benefit for autistic adults and companies seeking skilled tech talent. Our goal is to increase the supply of ready-to-work autistic technologists and ultimately decrease unemployment and underemployment within the autistic community.”
Pluralsight One, which works to close the technology skills gap by partnering with nonprofits and educators, was an early supporter. ATI trainees will complete online training programs and receive credentials through Pluralsight’s platform. Additional supporters include the Olafson Charitable Fund and the Jeremy & Amy Hanks Foundation.
ATI’s Board Members and Advisors include leadership from auticon; executives from Fortune 500 companies with a proven commitment to hiring autistic talent and embracing neurodiversity; and leaders in business, technology, autism services, and autism investment.
Vance Checketts, CEO, auticon US
Evan Bierman, Finance Director, auticon US
Bob McCowan, SVP & CIO, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Jeff Hunter, SVP Wealth Management & Private Wealth Advisor, UBS
Jodi Donnelly, IT Product Manager, Nationwide
John Kingdeski
Michael Storz, President, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center
Alison Andreozzi (Advisor)
Eric Olafson (Advisor)
The first cohort of trainees has completed their training and started internships at Regeneron. ATI welcomes outreach from companies that are interested in providing technical internship opportunities for ATI trainees. Applications for training are not open at this time, but ATI will announce on its website and LinkedIn page when openings become available.
“As CIO at Regeneron, I’ve seen firsthand the immense value that autistic technologists bring to our teams. By partnering with ATI, we are taking a meaningful step toward developing this underutilized talent pool, ensuring autistic professionals gain the hands-on experience and skills necessary to excel. Regeneron is proud to be the first company to provide internships for ATI trainees, helping create a more inclusive future for tech.” –Bob McCowan, SVP & CIO, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.
“At Nationwide, we have experienced the powerful contributions that autistic technologists make to our teams. Our partnership with ATI is an exciting extension of our commitment to creating opportunities for neurodivergent talent. By equipping autistic individuals with critical skills and offering them real-world experiences, ATI helps bridge the gap between untapped talent and the opportunities that exist in companies across the U.S.” –Jodi Donnelly, IT Product Manager, Nationwide
“ATI fills a critical gap in the neurodiverse employment landscape by providing autistic individuals with the skills and experience they need to start meaningful careers. I’ve spoken with so many families who struggle to find opportunities for their talented children, and this initiative gives them the chance to demonstrate their capabilities. This is just the beginning, and I believe ATI has the potential to scale and create lasting change in the industry.” –Eric Olafson, ATI Advisor
“Empowering autistic adults with the training and skills to pursue meaningful careers is a vital step toward greater independence and inclusion. ATI’s work resonates deeply with our mission at Chapel Haven Schleifer Center to empower people with disabilities to live independent and self-determined lives. I am excited to support this important initiative that offers real pathways for personal and professional growth within the autistic community.” –Michael Storz, President, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center
“Since becoming involved with auticon, I have experienced many ‘aha’ moments as I see progress in research, education, employment, and support systems for individuals on the autism spectrum. By seeking donations and commitment from companies to hire, train and provide additional job opportunities, I aim to provide rewarding experiences to the autism community via the auticon Training Institute (ATI). Because everyone deserves an ‘aha’ moment.” –Jeff Hunter, SVP Wealth Management & Private Wealth Advisor, UBS
“Autistic professionals bring unique perspectives and skills that can elevate entire teams. With ATI, we’re not only preparing autistic individuals for tech careers but also helping companies access a largely untapped talent pool. By fostering these partnerships, ATI is setting the stage for a more inclusive tech industry, where innovation thrives through diversity.” –Alison Andreozzi, ATI Advisor
“Autistic individuals are often overlooked for opportunities to gain meaningful long-term employment. ATI is closing that opportunity gap with no cost training for participants providing them with the hard technical skills and hands-on experience the modern enterprise requires.” –John Kingdeski, ATI Board Member
“Organizations that embrace neurodiversity gain access to a wealth of unique perspectives and problem-solving abilities that can drive innovation and enhance team dynamics. The auticon Training Institute not only prepares autistic individuals for successful careers in technology but also helps companies build more inclusive management teams. By leveraging this diverse talent, businesses can foster a culture of understanding and collaboration that benefits everyone.” –Evan Bierman, Finance Director, auticon US
About the Auticon Training Institute
The auticon Training Institute (ATI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to training and preparing autistic adults for tech careers. ATI is separate from but closely partnered with auticon US. ATI’s mission is to reduce unemployment and underemployment in the autistic community by empowering individuals with the skills and confidence to excel in technology roles. Through technical training, job coaching, internships, mentorship, and networking, ATI equips autistic adults to succeed in careers where their abilities are highly valued. For more information or to get involved, visit www.auticontraininginstitute.org.
About auticon
auticon is an award-winning social innovation company. As an autistic-majority company, we’re a resource for talent. We integrate our technology consultants into client organizations, performing as software developers, data analysts, QA engineers, and more. Clients experience our outstanding autistic professionals first-hand, opening minds and achieving diversity goals.
Our model improves the economic and social conditions of the autistic community with quality careers, unlocking opportunity, and empowering client organizations through actionable neurodiversity training and advisory services. Here, our employees build lifelong careers in technology, discovering personal autonomy and improved self-esteem. For more information, visit www.auticon.com/us.