Computer Aid, Inc. (CAI)Autism2Work Initiative
The Autism Society of Pittsburgh has recently partnered with Computer Aid, Inc. (CAI) to assist with the Autism2Work initiative in the Pittsburgh area. This program primarily supports semi-skilled to high functioning individuals on the spectrum who are eager to enter the workforce with a company that will appreciate the contributions and talents they have to offer.
CAI’s Autism2Work overview flyer states, “CAI has pioneered a recruiting, onboarding and training model that bridges the gap between those on the Autism Spectrum and meaningful employment, ultimately bringing an untapped talent pool into the workplace for our clients. CAI manages the recruiting, selection, training, cultural integration, on-the-job supervision, skill development and performance management of Autistic team members. We can support team members on the client site or host the work at one of CAI’s locations. This provides an opportunity for our clients to tap into this pool of talent quickly without the upfront investment or time constraints for implementation of the required support structure.” To view the Autism2Work overview, click here.
CAI is one of the largest employers of individuals diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum in the U.S. For more information on CAI’s Autism2Work program, click here to visit their website. Watch the Autism2Work Video: https://www.cai.io/moving-forward-with-autism2work
Current Job Posting:
Are you on the autism spectrum, have a college degree, and are searching for a career in Information Technology? CAI has current job postings for Quality Assurance Analysts in Pittsburgh, PA. Click here for more information.
Interesting Job Related Articles:
Daily living skills influence autistic adults’ education, employment options; Laura Dattaro, Spectrum: January 5, 2021- Autistic people’s skill at managing the demands of daily life starts to decline after they leave high school, according to a new study. But those who maintain more abilities relative to their peers are more likely to pursue further education
Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum and Early Employment-Related Experiences: Aspirations and Obstacles – Journal of Aut Dev Dis – April 30, 2020. In the United States, employment outcomes for young adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are poor, with many unemployed, underemployed, or otherwise unable to achieve their potential regardless of cognitive ability. To explore employment expectations and experiences, qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 young adults with ASD and 28 parents. Transcripts were analyzed using the constant comparative method associated with a grounded theory approach. Three major themes emerged: Employment Aspirations and Potential, Challenges of Job Finding and Keeping, and Differing Parent and Young Adult Work-Related Roles and Views. Issues discussed include the need to foster meaningful pre-employment opportunities, acknowledge the role of families in employment issues, provide ASD-focused workplace support, and effectively coordinate intersecting systems (e.g., schools, agencies, employers).