First Ascent: Autism Career Development
Start Your Career Journey Now!
We’re with you at each stage!
We guide people with autism to careers aligned to their unique strengths and passions!
“I was amazed at the progress the students made in going from ‘What I want to be when I grow up,’ to a specific career goal in a relatively short amount of time.
Janet D.
Janet D.
/
Parent of Former Student
Our Journey Has 3 Stages
1 – It Starts with Alignment and Route Planning
Individuals on the autism spectrum often possess pronounced interests and abilities, and they often require a specific work environment to thrive. Unlike neurotypical individuals, the conventional career decision process doesn’t serve them. Additionally, many with autism grow up uncertain about their career prospects, which can hinder their path forward. That’s why we focus heavily upfront to understand each person’s interests, abilities, work preferences, and work environment needs, and we find the precise career fit that maximizes their chances of success. We then develop a tailored, attainable work/learning pathway to prepare them for their chosen career.
2- We help you prepare, and persevere
Full of hope and a well-charted course to the right career, we begin the preparation phase. This could be a relatively short journey (a certification, a trade school program, a skill training program or an apprenticeship) or could extend across a degreed (multi-year) college program. Key to this phase is developing skills that will help you, or your child, in your work or learning preparation, and in remaining focused, motivated, and moving forward. Our coaches and mentors will stay connected with you throughout your career preparation and will provide coaching guidance – most of all support. We will be with you at each stage.
3 – We help you launch your career
Our aim is to match individuals with autism with roles aligning with their strengths and interests. We connect you with opportunities at partner organizations or with recruitment partners focused on individuals with autism. If specific roles aren’t available, we provide support in refining your interview skills and onboarding strategies. Our approach prioritizes a gradual transition into the professional world, starting with internships or temp-to-perm positions for a smoother adjustment. Our coaches offer support for your first six months of employment, guiding you towards success.
Start your career journey!
“We have a clear understanding and mapped out plan on how to decide on the right career and exactly how to get there.”
Valerie J.
I gained hope, confidence, and inspiration.”
Sharon H.
Who would benefit most from the First Ascent program?
- People with autism who are looking for a career, not job
- Young adults (17 – 27) who are moderately impacted by autism and who are looking for a career
- College students who are uncertain of their career direction
- Adults who have entered the workplace and encountered challenges and limited success
- Young adults in their senior year or recently graduated from high school and are looking for their next career step
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