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Launch of the auticon Training Institute: Paving the Way for Autistic Adults in Tech

Introduction by Vance Checketts

By Vance Checketts

As the CEO of auticon US, a pioneering force in employing autistic adults within the technology sector and providing neuroinclusion services, I am thrilled to announce the launch of the new nonprofit organization, the auticon Training Institute (ATI). This innovative venture is dedicated to equipping autistic individuals with the necessary skills and resources to embark on successful careers in technology. Building on the foundational commitment of auticon to foster neurodiversity in tech, ATI’s specially designed programs aim to empower autistic professionals to gain qualifications for roles in software engineering, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more. Our comprehensive offerings include structured training pathways, recognized certifications, hands-on internships, mentorship opportunities, and invaluable networking—all provided at no cost to the trainees.

Addressing Unemployment: A Critical Need

This initiative arrives at a crucial junction, as a staggering number of autistic adults remain either unemployed or underemployed despite their immense capabilities and potential to flourish in the workforce. In the United States alone, there are approximately 5.4 million autistic adults. Shockingly, for those holding a college degree, up to 85% are either unemployed or underemployed—a statistic that is both alarming and unacceptable. Concurrently, the technology sector is grappling with a significant skills shortage. As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow by 25% between 2022 and 2032, significantly outpacing the growth of most other occupational fields. This disjunction presents a unique opportunity for ATI, positioning us to bridge the gap by providing autistic adults the technical skills and confidence necessary to thrive in tech careers.

Empowering Autistic Professionals

Historically, autistic individuals often possess the ideal aptitudes for technology careers but may struggle due to a deficiency in the requisite technical skills or practical job experience needed to secure their first employment. The auticon Training Institute is designed to directly address these gaps, creating a dual advantage: we empower autistic individuals while simultaneously offering companies eager to hire skilled tech talent a ready and capable workforce. Our ultimate aim is to enhance the pool of skilled autistic technologists ready to enter the workforce, thereby significantly decreasing the instances of unemployment and underemployment within the autistic community.

Partnerships and Support

We are proud to announce that Pluralsight One, an organization committed to narrowing the technology skills gap through collaborations with nonprofits and educational institutions, has emerged as an early and enthusiastic supporter of our initiative. ATI trainees will engage in online training programs and earn recognized credentials through Pluralsight’s cutting-edge platform. Additional appreciation goes out to the dedicated support of the Olafson Charitable Fund and the Jeremy & Amy Hanks Foundation, whose contributions are invaluable.

Our Board and Future Outlook

I am honored to serve alongside a distinguished group of leaders on ATI’s Board, comprising investment professionals from Utah, executives from Fortune 500 companies with a steadfast commitment to hiring autistic talent, and experts in the fields of business, technology, and autism services.

Some of our esteemed board members include:

• Bob McCowan, Senior Vice President & Chief Information Officer, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Jodi Donnelly, IT Product Manager, Nationwide
• Jeff Hunter, Senior Vice President of Wealth Management & Private Wealth Advisor, UBS
• Michael Storz, President, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center
• Evan Bierman, Finance Director, auticon US
• John Kingdeski
• Alison Andreozzi (Advisor)
• Eric Olafson (Advisor)

The inaugural cohort of trainees has already successfully completed their training and commenced internships with Regeneron. ATI welcomes inquiries from companies interested in providing technical internships for our talented trainees. Partnering with ATI grants your organization access to a pool of pre-screened talent, custom-trained to fit your tech requirements, alongside job coaching and comprehensive neuroinclusion training. This collaboration leads to a mutually beneficial arrangement for both the autistic technologists and your corporate teams.

Call to Action

We invite Utah employers to join us in our mission to support the career development of autistic tech professionals while reaping the competitive advantages that come with fostering neurodiverse teams. Together, we can tackle the pressing issues of unemployment and underemployment in the autistic community while simultaneously building a more inclusive tech workforce.

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About the Author

About the Author

Vance Checketts is the CEO of auticon US and the Board President of the auticon Training Institute. Before his tenure at auticon, which began in 2024, Vance contributed significantly as the COO of Built, a pioneering HR technology startup. His professional journey includes high-level executive roles at several leading companies, such as Oracle, EMC, and Dell Technologies. His work has received numerous accolades, including the Living Color Award from Utah Business, the Impact Award from Women Tech Council, and the Silver Leadership Award from Junior Achievement.

Vance is actively engaged with various community and industry boards, such as Junior Achievement, the STEM Action Center, the Women Tech Council, and the Technology Initiative Advisory Board of the Utah System of Higher Education. He is deeply passionate about making a social impact in technology, nurturing nature, and fostering inclusivity. Vance holds a BA and an MBA in International Business from Brigham Young University.

About the auticon Training Institute

The auticon Training Institute (ATI) is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to training and preparing autistic adults for successful technology careers. While ATI operates independently, it shares a close partnership with auticon US. The mission of ATI focuses on reducing unemployment and underemployment within the autistic community by equipping individuals with relevant skills and the confidence necessary to excel in various technology roles. Through a combination of technical training, job coaching, internships, mentorship opportunities, and networking, ATI provides autistic adults with the tools they need to thrive in an industry where their unique abilities are not only recognized but celebrated. For more information or to get involved, please visit www.auticontraininginstitute.org.

About auticon

Auticon, based in Sacramento with a significant presence in Salt Lake City, stands out as an award-winning social innovation company. With a workforce predominantly composed of autistic individuals, we act as a valuable resource for businesses seeking untapped talent. Our technology consultants seamlessly integrate into client organizations, serving in roles such as software developers, data analysts, QA engineers, and more. Clients experience the remarkable skills and unique perspectives of our autistic professionals, which contribute to the achievement of diversity goals while expanding their understanding of neurodiversity.

Our operational model aims to enhance both the economic and social conditions of the autistic community by creating quality career opportunities that unlock potential and empower participating organizations through actionable neurodiversity training and advisory services. Here, our employees not only secure fulfilling careers in technology but also gain personal autonomy and improved self-esteem.

To learn more about our mission and initiatives, please visit www.auticon.com/us.

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