As many as 1 in 36 children were diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States in 2020. This means that in each year of the next decade, an estimated 70,700 to 111,600 teens will age out of school-based autism services as they enter adulthood, according to autismspeaks.org.
The prevalence of young people with autism entering the workforce greatly impacts both transition services and general vocational rehabilitation services.
Vocational rehabilitation providers who understand the varied experiences of people with autism will be better prepared to provided individualized, effective services that result in quality employment outcomes.
Neurodiversity and Autism
Describing people with autism as “neurodiverse” has become commonplace over the past years. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term for several neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism. The term can be controversial; it embraces the idea that there is no “right” way of thinking, learning, or behaving, and those differences are not deficits. However, some autism advocates believe treatment, rather than acceptance, is necessary to alleviate suffering of those with severe autism. (Source: Harvard Health, Psychology Today)
The controversy over terms is a reflection of how autism affects each person differently. People with autism differ as much from one another as do all people. Some people with autism have advanced conversational skills while others are nonverbal. Some may need support with daily activities, while others need little support. People with autism may be very smart, of average intelligence, or have cognitive deficits.
Outreach to People with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Engaging with and providing individualized services is necessary to address the unique experiences and needs of people with autism. Here are a variety of resources to get you started.
On-Demand Training
- Autism 101 – TACQE-U
This training will help you gain a basic understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), characteristics of autism, and how it can present in the workplace. - Autism and Employment - TACQE U
This webinar will introduce tools to assist people with ASD in obtaining and maintaining employment. It is designed for Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Employment Specialists, and young adults (17-24) living with Autism. - Ethical Considerations when Working with Individuals with Autism – Center for Persons with Disabilities and Utah State University
This training addresses autonomy, beneficence, and justice as it relates to professional ethics in the VR process, referrals, and employment outcomes for people on with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
More Resources
- Employment and Autism in America Today - Forbes (featuring Autism Workforce)
Get highlights from initiatives of entrepreneurs, employers and co-workers who are trying new ways to more fully integrate workers with developmental differences into jobs.
- Autism – Office of Disability Employment Policy
Explore autism resources for employers, individuals, service providers, policy makers, and youth.
- Accommodating Employees with Autism Spectrum - JAN
A sample of job accommodations for employees with autism.
- Autism @ Work Playbook - Disability:IN
Guidance for employers interested in developing autism-focused hiring initiatives, including an overview of business models.
- Neurodiversity in the Workplace - ASKEARN
A toolkit for organizations to recruit, hire, retain and advance neurodivergent workers and benefit from the advantages of neurodiversity at work.