Rewarding Careers Suitable for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Rewarded Careers Suitable for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum, as Discussed on Psychcentral.com

The world of work is opening up to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as more resources become available to help employers understand and accommodate their unique strengths and needs.

The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities (OCALI) is one such resource, offering valuable insights on employing individuals with ASD. Their expertise highlights that a diagnosis of ASD does not limit individuals to specific careers. Instead, people with ASD have a wide range of interests and skills that can be a valuable asset in various fields.

For instance, the unique perspectives of individuals with ASD can be an asset in the visual arts field and the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Some individuals with ASD excel in the structured environment the armed forces provide, and some specialties within the military focus on technology and science.

Jobs in accounting, such as forensic accounting or bookkeeping, may be suitable for autistic individuals who enjoy mathematics and number crunching. On the other hand, careers in computer coding, data analyst, cybersecurity, and IT careers, journalism, animal science, pet grooming, and animal care, filmmaking, computer-generated special effects, photography, archivist, librarian, or historian, science and technology research, and the military are also potential fits.

Assembly, shipping and receiving, and robotics are aspects of the manufacturing industry that may appeal to some autistic people. Auto technician work can be a fulfilling career choice for autistic people who have an interest in understanding how things work and enjoy detailed or complex projects.

The journey into employment for autistic individuals may require assistance with job search. Resources such as job coaches, transition programs, and organisations like the Rehabilitation Services Administration can provide help. Companies can also help autistic employees by learning about the symptoms and behaviors associated with autism, finding ways to support their needs, and ensuring they're matched to a job that aligns with their interests and skills.

For employers looking to hire an autistic employee and create an inclusive work environment, resources include Disability:IN, Job Accommodation Network (JAN) and the JAN Toolkit, Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN), Organization for Autism Research (OAR), and OCALI. Hire Autism is another valuable resource for finding companies that employ autistic people and foster an inclusive work environment.

Additionally, companies advertising on the myAbility.jobs platform actively promote diversity and inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities, including autistic employees, by enabling workplace adjustments and openly encouraging applications from people with disabilities. Firms like Accenture Switzerland are known for addressing neurodiversity and inclusion seriously at leadership levels.

For autistic young adults or those supporting an autistic young person, resources to consider include the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities (OCALI), College Autism Network, and Hire Autism. The College Autism Network is a resource for autistic young adults or those supporting an autistic young person in their journey through transitioning into adulthood.

The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) offers an employer's guide on understanding autism, providing practical advice for creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. The guide covers topics such as communication, workplace adjustments, and accommodations.

In conclusion, with the right resources and support, individuals with ASD can thrive in the workforce. By understanding and valuing the unique strengths and needs of individuals with ASD, employers can tap into a talented and diverse pool of potential employees.