An estimated 1.5 million people in the U.S. have some form of autism. In total, the combined under and unemployment of young adults with autism is estimated to be 90%. But people on the spectrum possess skills and traits in high demand1. According to the Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders2, they typically possess strong visual perception skills and the ability to remain highly focused in certain situations. They often are highly intelligent, pay careful attention to detail, have the ability to find patterns and anomalies in data, and are able to focus and perform high-quality repetitive tasks.

It's not simply a stereotype to say that individuals with autism can possess astonishing and enlightened talents. For example some with autism are highly artistic; some exhibit heightened memorization abilities; some are extremely adept with miniscule details.

Autistic people have valuable skills to bring to the table, especially when employers understand that neurodiversity is a strength. There's power in having diverse perspectives on any team and that includes people on the spectrum. Even though there may be challenges as you iron out accommodations that work for you, there are benefits for employers and employed autistic workers3.

"We know that bringing diverse perspectives and different ways of thinking to the table leads to true innovation at work," says Lou Candiello, Senior Manager, Diversity Talent Acquisition, Dell Technologies4. "That was a driving force behind our Autism Hiring Program and the need to champion neurodiversity in the workplace."

Employers around the country are increasingly hiring individuals with autism. And autism experts say this integration into the workplace is critical for those with autism to gain independence and improve their own quality of life.

Some other well-known employers that have created autism employment programs include Freddie Mac, Microsoft, SAP, Willis Towers Watson, and Walgreens5.

Adults who are on the spectrum are often extremely capable of having a successful, fulfilling career. The key is for employers to understand and recognize which positions will highlight the neurodiverse individual's strengths.

Sign the pledge promoting individuals with autism in the workplace!

More on this issue:

1. Heather Nezich, Diverse Ability Magazine, "More Companies Hiring Employees With Autism."
2. Seungwon Chung and Jung-Woo Son, Journal of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (1 July 2020), "Visual Perception in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review of Neuroimaging Studies."
3. Renee Fabian, the Mighty (16 November 2020), "10 Companies That Regularly Hire Autistic Workers."
4. Jennifer "Jay" Palumbo (17 December 2020), "How One Company Is Redefining Hiring And Working With People With Autism."
5. Francesca Happé, World Psychiatry (September 7 2018), "Why are savant skills and special talents associated with autism?"
6. International Board of Credentialling and Continuing Education Standards  (10 September 2020), "Autism in the Workforce: Companies Hiring People with Autism."