Bridging the Gap: Why Tech Needs Supported Internship Programmes for Autistic Young Adults

Introduction

The technology sector prides itself on innovation, problem-solving, and thinking creatively. Yet, we're missing out on a vast pool of talent that naturally embodies these qualities. The Buckland Review reveals a stark reality:

Despite their wish to work, the latest official statistics show that only around 3 in 10 working age autistic disabled people are in employment, compared with around 5 in 10 for all disabled people and 8 in 10 for non-disabled people.

This employment gap isn't just a statistic—it represents thousands of talented individuals whose unique perspectives and abilities could transform our industry. It's time for companies and organisations to step up and create meaningful employment pathways through supported internship programmes.

The Perfect Match: Autism and Tech

Many autistic individuals possess qualities that are highly valued in technology roles:

• Pattern recognition: The ability to spot patterns others might miss can be invaluable in data analysis, cybersecurity, and quality assurance
• Attention to detail: Exceptional focus on detail makes for excellent debugging, code review, and testing
• Logical thinking: A systematic approach to problem-solving aligns perfectly with programming and technical architecture
• Deep focus: The ability to concentrate intensely on tasks can lead to breakthrough innovations and thorough solutions
• Honest communication:Direct, clear communication can improve team efficiency and project outcomes
• Unique perspectives: Diverse ways of thinking can lead to creative solutions and new approaches to challenges

These qualities are not just beneficial; they are essential for driving innovation and excellence in technology. By embracing neurodiversity, we can unlock new levels of creativity and problem-solving that will propel our industry forward.

What Are Supported Internship Programmes?

Supported internship programmes are structured work experiences designed to help young adults with autism successfully transition into full-time employment. These programmes typically include:

• Workplace mentors: Dedicated support from colleagues through buddies or mentors. This is essential for the intern to receive guidance and support in their day-to-day work. Additionally, specialist job coaches knowledgeable and experienced in working with neurodiverse individuals and autism can provide valuable advice to both interns and management.
• Skills training: Valuable on-the-job practical experience along with technical training and specialised development and training delivered via job coaches.
• Workplace adjustments: This mainly involves straightforward changes. The first one I would personally recommend based on experience, is listening to the interns and letting them guide you to their specific needs. Every individual is unique; it’s essential to remember that. For example, creating sensory-friendly workspaces (or allowing the use of noise-cancelling headphones) and establishing clear communication structures. Being prepared to communicate in different ways. Additionally, informing interns about what to expect before it happens can help reduce their anxiety.
• Long-term support: Ongoing assistance even after the internship transitions to employment.

Success Stories

Large companies, such as Microsoft, SAP, and JPMorgan Chase, have already demonstrated the value of neurodiversity hiring programmes. Microsoft's Neurodiversity Hiring Program has attracted talented individuals who have made significant contributions to product development and testing. SAP's Autism at Work programme reports that participants often perform tasks with zero-defect rates and demonstrate exceptional attention to quality.

These aren't charity initiatives, they're good business decisions that tap into an under utilised talent pool.

Breaking Down Barriers

Traditional recruitment processes often inadvertently exclude autistic candidates. Conventional interviews emphasise social skills and spontaneous communication over actual job capabilities. Supported internships bypass these barriers by:

• Focusing on practical skills demonstrations rather than interview performance
• Providing clear, structured expectations and routines
• Offering multiple communication channels and styles
• Creating predictable environments that reduce anxiety

The Business Case

Beyond the moral imperative, there's a compelling business case for supported internship programmes:

1. Innovation through diversity: Different perspectives lead to innovative solutions
2. Retention rates: With proper support, autistic employees often show higher loyalty and lower turnover
3. Quality improvements: Detail-oriented team members can significantly improve product quality
4. Company culture: Inclusive practices benefit all employees by creating more transparent communication and more flexible work arrangements

Getting Started: A Call to Action

If you're a leader in a tech-related field or HR professional, consider these steps:

1. Partner with specialist organisations: Connect with autism employment charities and supported internship providers
2. Start small: Begin with one or two internship positions to learn and refine your approach
3. Invest in training: Ensure managers and teams understand autism and neurodiversity and how to create supportive environments
4. Measure success differently: Look beyond traditional metrics to value contribution and growth.
5. Share your journey: Help other companies learn from your experiences

The Future We Can Build

Imagine a tech industry where employment statistics for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) match those of the general population. Picture the innovations, the fresh perspectives, and the problems we could solve with truly diverse teams. This isn't just wishful thinking—it's an achievable goal if we commit to creating supportive pathways into our industry.

The Buckland Review has highlighted the challenge. Now it's time for the tech sector to be part of the solution. Supported internship programmes aren't just about providing opportunities—they're about recognising and nurturing talent that's been overlooked for too long.

Every major innovation in tech has come from thinking differently. We often discuss diversity, but diversity of thought is just as important - it's time we embraced different perspectives. The question isn't whether we can afford to implement supported internship programmes—it's whether we can afford not to.

If you're inspired to create supported internship opportunities or learn more about autism employment support, here are some UK organisations that may be able to help:

Supported Internship Providers:

• DFN Project SEARCH - A national charity running over 200 supported internship programmes across the UK, partnering with employers like NHS hospitals, councils, and major retailers
• Ambitious about Autism - Offers supported internships at locations including Whittington Hospital and Chessington World of Adventures, plus their Employ Autism programme for paid work experiences
• National Autistic Society - Provides employment support services and partners with IBM SkillsBuild for digital skills training
• Employment Autism - Offers resources for employers on recruiting and supporting autistic employees
• Autism Initiatives - One of the founding members of The Autism Alliance, providing employment support across the UK

How to Get Involved:

• Employers: Contact these organisations to explore partnership opportunities and access training
• Educators: Connect with DFN Project SEARCH or Ambitious about Autism to establish supported internship programmes
• Young People & Families: Look out for supported internship opportunities in your area.
• Everyone: Celebrate National Supported Internship Day on 27th March to raise awareness

 

Supported internship programmes are not just a moral obligation; they are a strategic advantage for the tech industry. By embracing neurodiversity, we can unlock untapped talent, drive innovation, and create a more inclusive workplace culture.

Together, we can build a more inclusive and innovative tech industry where neurodiverse talent thrives.