Software Testing Company Exclusively Hires ASD Candidates
There are roughly 500,000 adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) who have completed high school and/or college and offer certain attributes that make them better suited to high-level jobs like testing and debugging software than their neurotypical (i.e. not autistic) counterparts
These characteristics include a heightened ability to focus, pattern recognition, attention to detail, and a high threshold for repetitive tasks. Approximately 80% of these ideal candidates for employment in an ever-growing field remain unemployed, largely because of social difficulties faced in typical work places. ULTRA Testing, a New York City based software testing company, however, is anything but typical.
Rather than expect the candidates who are best qualified to adapt to uncomfortable and unpredictable environments, the founders of ULTRA testing devised a new business model that adapted the work environment conducive to allowing ASD workers to produce the best software product testing possible. Testers with Asperger’s or similar ASD profiles are given specialized training in a professional environment suited to their unique needs. Testers are teamed with managers not on the autism spectrum, who interface with clients and oversee project execution. The company believes this allows them to provide their clients with their best product, while providing opportunities for high functioning adults on the Autism Spectrum to excel at their jobs.
This particular company was not founded with the goal to maximize profit margins, but to produce a top quality product for their clients. This is already beginning to pay off, as they are winning jobs over some of the largest companies in the technology space. As the software industry continues to grow, so too will the demand for employees on the Autism Spectrum that make them uniquely suited to jobs that are beyond the abilities of the larger population.
ICare4Autism hosted it’s annual International Autism Conference on June 30th-July 2nd, 2014 in New York City. June 30th was the International Autism Workforce Conference Day dedicated to developing and promoting Autism Workforce Programs. This year in the United States alone, the number of 18 year-olds with autism entering into the workforce or higher education will reach 50,000. ICare4Autism understands the challenges these individuals will face when trying to find proper job training and employment once they finish their education.
Our solution to this challenge is to enact several initiatives to facilitate transition. ICare4Autism’s Global Autism Workforce Initiative, the world’s first global comprehensive autism workforce development initiative will enable us to collaborate with and create dynamic major workforce entities to develop the best practices in workforce development internationally and effective transition plans for people with autism and their families.
Sources:
http://news.yahoo.com/software-testing-firm-only-hires-workers-autism-161647007.html
http://www.ultratesting.us/businessmodel
http://www.businessinsider.com/startup-hires-people-on-autism-spectrum-2014-7
How robots are helping children with autism
Researchers believe robots hold the key to early diagnosis, as well as teaching social skills. What can they do that humans can’t?
Software Testing Company Exclusively Hires ASD Candidates
There are roughly 500,000 adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) who have completed high school and/or college and offer certain attributes that make them better suited to high-level jobs like testing and debugging software than their neurotypical (i.e. not autistic) counterparts
21 things NOT to say to a child with autism- -and what to say instead
of 21 things NOT to say to a person with an autism spectrum disorder, compiled with the help of members of my facebook autism forum:
How golf can help students with Autism
New after-school youth sports program in Canada brings golf to students with Autism
News Actress Talks Playing Character with Autism on Award-Winning TV Show
Autism Speaks Staffer Kerry Magro interviewed actress Diane Kruger (National Treasure, Inglorious Basterds) who plays a character with Asperger Syndrome on the hit FX series “The Bridge.” You can tune into the season 2 premiere of "The Bridge" tonight at 10 PM ET/9 PM CT on FX!
Why children with autism often fall victim to bullies
Bullying can affect anyone at any time, but young people with autism are especially vulnerable.
A day in the life of a physics student with autism
Michael Barton, 22, has high-functioning autism and has just finished a degree course. He is currently promoting a new book - his second in three years, entitled A Different Kettle of Fish - A Day in the Life of a Physics Student with Autism.
How to Teach an Autistic Child to Swim
Many parents and professionals want to know how to teach an autistic child to swim. Some children naturally love the water while others are very apprehensive.
Tips for Keeping Autistic Spectrum Children Engaged During Summer Break
Tips for Keeping Autistic Spectrum Children Engaged During Summer Break
Autism policy changes should not worry parents, Blais says
Education minister says intervention appointments missed due to illness won't affect services
Winterbourne View: One autistic boy's tragic tale
How one boy's moving story illustrates the tragedy of those still stuck in inappropriate care homes, despite Government promises
Autism is growing up
(CNN) -- As the world's leading autism researchers and advocates gathered at the International Meeting for Autism Research last weekend to share the latest discoveries about autism spectrum disorder, a strong theme emerged: Autism is growing up
Brave Kid With Autism Confronts His Bullies In Front Of The Whole Class, Leaves Us Speechless
One of the hardest things to do to a bully is to confront them. Harder still is to do it without making the problem worse.
Science News FDA Cracks Down on False Claims about Autism Treatments
Agency issues consumer warning; threatens legal action against those who market unproven, potentially dangerous products and therapies
Number of Teens and Young Adults with Autism in College on the Rise Number of Teens and Young Adults with Autism in College on the Rise
(April 29, 2014) - A FOX outlet in Cleveland last week highlighted the growing number of teens and young adults with autism attending college.
4 Qualities of People With Autism That Could Benefit Your Business
The Israeli Defense Force’s Satellite Intelligence Unit 9900 assigns autistic soldiers to monitor electronic combat maps for even the minutest changes. Their rare ability to focus for hours on end provides better results than non-autistic soldiers
Autism within the British Asian community
Disability is a taboo in the Asian community; many prefer not to talk about issues affecting them or their families. But tackling these issues openly is essential. DESIblitz speak to a mother and daughter about their experiences with autism.
Touching Video Explores Being a Dad to a Child with Autism
New media company SoulPancake produces a video series called The Fatherhood Project where filmmaker Corbyn Tyson explores what it means to be a good dad.
Autism research isn’t helping people live with daily reality
In the summer of 2010 as England was being knocked out of the World Cup in South Africa, something all together more hopeful was happening in London.
Athlete with Autism Adds Amazing Boston Marathon Finish to His ESPY
Jason "J-Mac" McElwain has a message for kids with autism: "It's amazing what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it."