Online training to create an autism inclusive workplace

Hiring the Spectrum is a new autism inclusion online training developed by, Cagney Smullin, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) student at the University of Utah and autistic adult. As an autistic person Cagney has experienced a range of employment, from retail, to nonprofit, to business owner, to higher education. During her coursework, Cagney conducted extensive research on the challenges that autistic people face when searching for, and retaining, employment. From that research and experience she found there is a need for increased awareness and training for all employers, not just those with specialized autism employment programs.

There are many businesses that would gladly hire an autistic employee for their skills and qualifications, but are not aware of the barriers that traditional hiring and employment practices create for autistic people. An estimated 80% of autistic adults are unemployed; many have formal training, education and a strong desire to work. This training will enable your organization to remove barriers and create a more inclusive work environment so you can tap into this talent pool. Studies show inclusive practices not only benefit autistic people, but also improve your overall workplace culture, increase employee satisfaction and production, and increase your consumer profile and your organization's bottom line.

See videos below by Autism Speaks and Rochester Institute of Technology about the benefits of hiring on the spectrum.

What:

During this course you will:

1. Understand the misconceptions about autism that lead to workplace discrimination

2. Recognize barriers to employment for autistic workers and understand how to remove those barriers

3. Utilize discussions and other activities to network with other employers.

4. Break down existing policy and practices at your organization and identify how they can be made more inclusive.

5. Be able to Identify training and activities to increase acceptance and support within your organizational culture.

6. Create an inclusion handbook for your organization for use by employees and managers.

Why:

Autism inclusion is a vital part of workplace inclusion initiatives. Disability is often left out when organizations discuss diversity, but is also deeply effected by workplace discrimination. This training will help you identify and problem solve barriers within your organization to autistic employees.

Autism inclusion and disability inclusion are not just good for the people you hire, but for your organization as a whole. See how companies leading disability inclusion outperform their peers

Who:

This course is designed for HR staff, managers, or any employee who wants to work on changing their workplace culture and encourage inclusive hiring and employment practices.

When:

Hiring the Spectrum is in transition to a new platform and will be available in Fall 2019. Please sign up below if you are interested and I will contact you once the training is ready to launch. If you would like to setup a consultation or other in-person presentation or training please email Cagney Smullin (cagneysmullin@gmail.com).

Cost:

TBD

How:

If you are interested in enrolling in this training, please fill out the interest form below to be notified when enrollment begins.