The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

The autism community needs jobs, but there are very few companies that are taking on this worthy and noble challenge. While many don’t think of it employing this loyal workforce at all, others are intimidated with where to begin. At legendary Chicago Company, Hart Schaffner Marx (HSM), we have pioneered an approach and protocol that is building a dynamic and valuable autism workforce that changes lives and inspires everyone involved.

David Geslak and Ashley Palomino developed the Autism Workforce Program after their experiences as job coaches and working with transition programs and employment agencies. To find employment for this population, the tradition is adult agencies, transition programs and independent job coaches’ work directly with companies to find employment. Once an individual is hired they begin to adapt the job to the needs of the individual. This works but the needs of the business and future co-workers are being left out.

The Autism Workforce Program begins before any individual with autism is hired. Human resource documents are transformed to promote independence. The workplace is customized so sensory levels are reduced allowing the individual a better chance to focus. Managers and future co-workers are prepared and educated on autism and what can be expected. And exercise, proven through research to increase on-task behavior and calm unwanted behaviors, is a vital part of the individual with autism’s daily work routine.

At HSM, Exercise Connection built a custom fitness center that individuals use for thirty minutes before or after their work shift. They are not only paid to work, but also paid to exercise. Their exercise program addresses their specific health issues and job responsibility needs. In the case that any anxiety of sensory issues should occur, the exercise facility is a comfortable and non-judgmental area for them to manage their own behaviors.

David and Ashley will share their experience with implementing this program at HSM (a 500 person company) and their collaboration with local adult agencies. This program was also the feature cover story in the Chicago Tribune (June 2016). They are creating a model where the hiring process, environment, and employees are autism ready to ensure best results of each employee with autism and the business.