In an effort to help more people on the autism spectrum connect with jobs and employment resources, the Missouri Job Center-Ozark Region and several local employers are hosting a networking event specifically for those on the spectrum. The event will be held 1-4 p.m. Thursday, April 26 at the Job Center, 2900 E. Sunshine. Participating companies will have representatives on hand to answer questions and discuss potential skill sets desired for the IT industry. The Job Center will host three “lunch and learn” events to educate participating employers about employing those on the autism spectrum 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on March 27, April 3 and April 10.
“Nationwide and especially in the Ozarks, we have found that many people on the autism spectrum are either unemployed or underemployed,” says Mary Ann Rojas, Job Center director and director of Workforce Development for the City of Springfield. “We want to create an opportunity for those on the spectrum to show us what they’re capable of, and for local companies to dial into this largely untapped talent pool.”
Partner agencies include Arc of the Ozarks, Abilities First, Preferred Family Healthcare, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Vocational Rehabilitation division, EasterSeals Midwest, Missouri State University and the Missouri Department of Mental Health.
For more information, please contact Workforce Development Specialist Tammy Casey at 417-874-2732 or [email protected].
View Feb. 11 CBS Sunday Morning story “The growing acceptance of autism in the workplace.”