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Work and Autism

Autism is a complex developmental disability, typically appearing during childhood and affecting the way a person communicates and interacts with others. Some people with Autism also have intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. In this section, you will find resources to help people with Autism work in competitive integrated employment.

The ICI/UMass Boston has an ongoing Memorandum of Understanding with the Autism Society of America. Together, we commit to promoting and advancing employment opportunities for people with Autism.

Publications

Frank: Leveraging Natural Supports in the Workplace

Frank Hellmer is a 31-year-old man who lives alone in Little Rock, Arkansas. He enjoys playing video games in his spare time. Frank currently works as a data analyst for Centene Corporation where he has accessed a range of natural supports that have enabled his ongoing success. 

Oscar: How Focused, Individualized Exploration Led to a Good Job Match at Shake Shack

Oscar Segal is 27 years old and lives in his own apartment in the Bronx, New York. He grew up with the expectation from his parents that he would work and support himself to the greatest extent possible. For the last seven years, he has worked for the Shake Shack restaurant chain. Read an accessible format of the story here.

Creating a Path: How to Support Families and Young Adults with Autism to Prepare for Competitive Integrated Employment

The transition from school to adult life can be challenging for many families with young adults with Autism. Because of such challenges, preparation activities for young adults are key to post-high school success in employment. The purpose of this toolkit is to share considerations and resources for professionals and other supporters as they work with families and youth to prepare for competitive integrated employment.

Lessons Learned from the Learning Academy: Optimizing Transition Supports for Young Adults with Autism

The Learning Academy (TLA) at the University of South Florida is a 30-week transition program for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) between the ages of 18 and 25. The program provides services, supports, and experiential opportunities, with the aim of enhancing skills that will prepare students to succeed in the workplace and postsecondary education settings.

Considering Community Service: Building Self-Determination Skills for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This guide offers practical solutions for transition coordinators, educators, and others who want to implement community service activities that build skills for youth with ASD. This publication addresses building self-determination skills. Other publications in the toolkit focus on career exploration and social skills.
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