How These 9 Companies Are Celebrating Difference This Autism Awareness or Acceptance Month
You may have recognized that some neurodivergent people are exceptionally skilled, excelling in things like pattern recognition and mathematics, and that those skills deserve to be celebrated, as the Harvard Business Review did in their report "Neurodiversity as a Competitive Advantage" in 2017.
But whether highlighting the significant contributions that neurodivergent employees have made or just honoring who they are as people, we wanted to take a moment this April to share some ways that industry leaders are marking World Autism Awareness Month.
We also want to acknowledge that Autism Speaks, the organization that began World Autism Awareness Month in the 1970s, has had a complicated relationship with the autism community. (Here's a good guide on that context.) We recognize that some prefer to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, or to align with other organizations' World Autism Awareness activities, like the UN's.
However you decide to "Celebrate Difference"—the Autism Society of America's theme for April 2021—this month, PowerToFly and these 9 companies are celebrating right along with you!
Sharing inclusivity, not stereotypes, at Raytheon Technologies
"Raytheon Technologies and our Raytheon Alliance for Diverse Abilities (RADA) Employee Resource Group (ERG) is committed to trying to bring focus on invisible disabilities, as they are among the most misunderstood. Autism/neurodiversity isn't a mental illness and we recognize how important it is to bring awareness, be inclusive of everyone and avoid stereotypes. During Autism Awareness Month RADA is featuring a multi-regional presentation about Autism Awareness & Acceptance, as well as neurodiversity overall. The presentation is focused on educational information, including what Autistic people want in terms of inclusion and meaningful work, as well as dispelling common misconceptions."
Learn more about Raytheon Technologies.
Hiring a world-class workforce at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
"The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency recently launched the Neurodiverse Federal Workforce (NFW) pilot program, a collaborative effort between NGA, MITRE, and Melwood. The NFW pilot aims to help government agencies hire neurodiverse talent for U.S. Federal Government agencies. 'NGA mission success is contingent on a world-class workforce with a wide diversity of opinions and expertise,' said NGA Deputy Director Dr. Stacey Dixon. 'Neurodiverse talent can bring new perspectives to the NGA workforce and make important contributions to the mission.' The pilot is a great learning opportunity for NGA to continue to grow and improve our first-class workforce."
Learn more from the podcast "The National Geospatial Intelligence Agency Takes Workforce Diversity In A New Direction"
Learn more about the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
Supporting each individual's preferred environment at Elastic
"We distribute anonymous surveys that allow anyone, including neurodiverse folks, to address potential barriers that we should address.
Our accessibility working group acts as an employee resource as well as an equity-seeking team that works to create and develop a disability inclusive workplace at Elastic.
The majority of our Elasticians work from home. Our hope is that this empowers neurodiverse employees, including those who may be on the spectrum, to have more control over their environment so that they can manage noise and light sensitivity, control their personal space, and manage their own schedule to reduce anxiety."
Learn more about Elastic.
Pioneering neurodiversity at Freddie Mac
"Freddie Mac values the insights and different perspectives that result from employees bringing their authentic selves to work. Our Office of Inclusive Engagement works with several organizations to identify qualified candidates, consider them for suitable roles and pair them with mentors who can help them adapt to an evolving new normal. In 2020, we evolved our neurodiversity internship initiative into a more robust training, education and hiring process called 'Neurodiversity at Work' to directly place candidates with Autism Spectrum Disorders into full-time roles."
Learn more about Freddie Mac.
Decoding inclusion at MongoDB
"MongoDB supports the neurodivergent community through interview accommodations, providing new hires the opportunity to select equipment and denote special requests, and onboarding checklists broken down into useful sections. To raise awareness about neurodiversity in the workplace, we have a learning and development (L&D) platform which has content on collaborating with different working styles. Our L&D Program focuses on building skills in managing teams inclusively. We also host Decoding Inclusion, a series of events aimed at building community and sharing foundational knowledge about D&I topics, including neurodiversity, to further our understanding of differences."
Read more about how MongoDB celebrates difference in this interview with their VP of Corporate Comms
Learn more about MongoDB.
Encouraging allyship at Folsom Labs
"At Folsom Labs, we are passionate about building a culture of acceptance and inclusion. Our goal is not just to spread autism awareness but to strive to be allies and elevate the voices of those with disabilities. Now more than ever, this is important as many are facing the added weight of mental health and wellness challenges due to the pandemic. Encouraging allyship throughout the community and building a culture where everyone can thrive are at the forefront of our current initiatives. We are proud to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month — to set a stage where we can celebrate our differences and continue to create a space of inclusion and support."
Learn more about Folsom Labs.
Recruiting for diverse problem solvers at Dell Technologies
"Dell's Neurodiversity Hiring Program provides professional development training, internships, and full-time career opportunities for neurodivergent job seekers. The program rethinks the traditional interview process by removing barriers that may limit an individual from fully showcasing their skills and capabilities. Additionally, program participants benefit from job coaching and mentorship provided by our community partners and True Ability ERG members.
A variety of critical positions across the company have been filled through the program. In doing so, we are bringing in diverse perspectives for problem solving that have helped us differentiate ourselves within the marketplace all while cultivating a culture of inclusion."
Learn more about Dell.
Supporting professionals with autism throughout their talent journey at Deloitte
"At Deloitte, everyone contributes to our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Our inclusive culture, empowers all of us, including those with diverse abilities, to connect, belong, and grow. Deloitte's Autism@Work program supports our professionals with autism throughout their talent journey. A customized, autism-friendly assessment process helps draw out our candidates' strengths. Our employees have an internal Coach, an Onboarding Advisor, and access to external job coaching. Our Onboarding Mentor/Buddy Program pairs professionals with autism with other Deloitte colleagues/allies. Through Neurodiversity Training, our professionals can help support and manage our differently-abled professionals. We also have our Abilities First Business Resource Group for people with disabilities plus allies."
Learn more about Deloitte.
Sharing stories to support awareness at Lockheed Martin
"Lockheed Martin shares employee stories internally to help others understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and hosts internal events to support ASD awareness and education. The Able & Allies business resource group, whose mission is to build an environment that empowers employees with disabilities, has recently partnered with ASD advocacy organizations to offer resources to assist with managing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with persons who have ASD and their families. Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) is a member of the Florida Ability Inclusion Network and strives to educate employees and leaders on disabilities and recommend best practices to promote a disability-friendly workplace."
Learn more about Lockheed Martin.
Elevating Black Women Virtual Summit: Learn more about Our Partners, Sponsors & Speakers
Our Sponsors
Smartsheet
In 2005, Smartsheet was founded on the idea that teams and millions of people worldwide deserve a better way to deliver their very best work. Today, the company delivers a leading cloud-based platform for work execution, empowering organizations to plan, capture, track, automate, and report on work at scale, resulting in more efficient processes and better business outcomes.
Smartsheet went public on the New York Stock Exchange in April 2018 and currently enables collaboration, better decision making, and accelerated innovation for over 76,000 domain-based customers in 190 countries, including 96 of the Fortune 100.
Smartsheet is a passionate team of 1500+ employees spanning offices in Seattle, Boston, London, Edinburgh and Sydney.
MINDBODY
MINDBODY is a health, wellness and fitness company that helps promote healthier and happier lives. Many women already have a strong connection to MINDBODY as a result of their use of the app in their daily lives. Working for a wellness company like MINDBODY is more than just having a job; it is a way for women to relate to something they are passionate about and can now incorporate into their careers.
NGA
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) delivers world-class geospatial intelligence that provides a decisive advantage to policymakers, warfighters, intelligence professionals and first responders. Anyone who sails a U.S. ship, flies a U.S. aircraft, makes national policy decisions, fights wars, locates targets, responds to natural disasters, or even navigates with a cellphone relies on NGA.
Procore Technologies
Procore Technologies is building the software that builds the world. We provide cloud-based construction management software that helps clients more efficiently build skyscrapers, hospitals, retail centers, airports, housing complexes and more. At Procore, we have worked hard to create and maintain a culture where you can own your work and are encouraged and given resources to try new ideas. Our headquarters is located on the bluffs above the Pacific Ocean in Carpinteria, CA, with growing offices worldwide.
S&P Global
S&P Global is more than just a place to work. It's a place to learn and grow, surrounded by the best and brightest. A place to challenge yourself and advance your career. If you're a pioneer or a thinker, there's a role for you to play in our mission to help accelerate progress in the world. S&P Global provides essential intelligence for companies, governments and individuals to make decisions with conviction. Our legacy is built on an unwavering ability to deliver data and insights that are vital to the world's economy.
PwC
Together we can create change. Together we can make an impact. And the only way we can tackle the challenges of a fast-changing world is with people like you. Powered by integrated digital tools of today, you'll provide services, build innovative products and technology solutions that will refine the ways we work and support our clients. The firm is committed to gender equality and focuses on creating an inclusive culture that develops our people to be future leaders.
Our Partner
TransTech Social Enterprises
TransTech is an incubator for LGBTQ Talent with a focus on economically empowering the T, transgender people, in our community. TransTech is a co-working, co-learning community dedicated to empowering trans, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer people and allies with practical, career-ready skills.
Learn More About These Amazing Initiatives & Organizations
The Jane Club
The Jane Club is curated community platform that offers live gatherings and social connection that is educational, inspirational and transformative.
Honor all work. Come as you are. Show up. Be of service.
From the first incubator space where we tested coworking with onsite, full-time childcare, to our expanding digital community of 500+ Janes from all across the country and around the world, these have been our guiding principles.
Use code FLY50 for 50% off first month at The Jane Club.
APCO Worldwide
APCO Worldwide is an advisory and advocacy communications consultancy helping leading public and private sector organizations navigate the challenges of today, act with agility, anticipate social risk, and build organizational reputations, relationships and solutions to succeed. APCO is an independent and majority women-owned business. Most importantly, we are a trusted partner to our clients. We help them anticipate, plan, execute and secure their futures through our in-depth expertise, astute counsel and creative strategies.
Thumbtack
At Thumbtack, we're building more than a product. We're building local economies and stronger communities. Leveling the playing field so even the smallest of businesses has a fair shot at success.
Thumbtack's about skill, hustle and the victory of getting things done — not what you look like, who you love or what you believe in. Thumbtack is for everyone.
Randstad
We provide outsourcing, staffing, consulting and workforce solutions within the areas of engineering, accounting and finance, healthcare, human resources, IT, legal, life sciences, manufacturing and logistics, office and administration and sales and marketing. We can't wait to tell you all about it.
Indeed
Indeed is the #1 job site in the world1 with over 250 million unique visitors2 every month. Indeed strives to put job seekers first, giving them free access to search for jobs, post resumes, and research companies. Every day, we connect millions of people to new opportunities.
Marva For Judge
Marva Brown is a Brooklyn based attorney with more than 14 years of experience practicing law in the State of New York. A seasoned litigator, Marva has represented clients in the District Court of Nassau County, the Bronx Hall of Justice, the Kings County Criminal Court and the New York State Supreme Court of Kings County - Criminal Term.
Mom's Hierarchy of Needs
When so many of us ignore burning ideas to launch projects into the world after we have kids, what gets in our way? When we're at work yet thinking about everything going on at home, what's behind it and how can we change it for our children?
Mom's Hierarchy of Needs is a community where parents can feel safe, understood and supported in the desire to reduce stress, prioritize self-care, dream big dreams and live in possibility.
The Mom's Hierarchy of Needs framework was developed with input in our first study and Mom's Hierarchy of Needs research is focused on making us stronger, healthier and happier.
Move The Crowd
Move the Crowd is led by CEO and author Rha Goddess, and provides life coaching, business consultation and online courses that help entrepreneurs and leaders. The True.Paid.Good philosophy evolved from Rha's own journey as a struggling artist/activist who was short on dollars but huge on change. From the mouths of her own influential life coaches and mentors, Rha realized that if she had more, she could do more. Even more importantly, she could BE more. Whatever your end game, aspiration or dream: we got you.
Mosaic Matchmaking
We provide relationship coaching and matchmaking services to professionals of color. What differentiates us from other matchmaking services is our focus on serving diverse populations and promoting intentional dating. Many other matchmaking services cater to white men that have a high net worth.
We remove barriers to traditional, exclusive matchmaking services by increasing accessibility.We are committed to understanding your wants and needs and providing a great experience.
Fundr
Fundr is on a mission to bring equal opportunity to investing so world changing people and ideas are not overlooked. We do this by using AI to eliminate bias, increase access, decrease the time to funding and help even the playing field of investor to founder relationships.
Advantage Evans Academy
On July 1, 2020, Professor Tonya M. Evans joined the Penn State Dickinson Law faculty to continue and expand her work in blockchain and cryptocurrency, data, technology, entertainment law and social justice. Recently, she accepted an offer for a tenured position at the rank of full professor, to begin July 1, 2021. She also owns the Advantage Evans™ Academy and hosts the Tech Intersect Podcast, a weekly podcast that highlights new and notable experts at the intersections of law, business and technology.
Zero Hour
The mission of Zero Hour is to center the voices of diverse youth in the conversation around climate and environmental justice. Zero Hour is a youth-led movement creating entry points, training, and resources for new young activists and organizers (and adults who support our vision) wanting to take concrete action around climate change. Together, we are a movement of unstoppable youth organizing to protect our rights and access to the natural resources and a clean, safe, and healthy environment that will ensure a livable future where we not just survive, but flourish.
Prosperity Now
Prosperity Now (formerly CFED) believes that everyone deserves a chance to prosper. Since 1979, we have helped make it possible for millions of people, especially people of color and those of limited incomes, to achieve financial security, stability and, ultimately, prosperity. We offer a unique combination of scalable practical solutions, in-depth research and proven policy solutions, all aimed at building wealth for those who need it most
Transgender Strategy Center
We are the Transgender Strategy Center (TSC), and we're here to help your organization or company grow. Since our founding in 2017, we've assisted a range of clients in achieving their unique business goals. We can equip you and your organization with a plan for success.
TSC elevates and amplifies transgender voices and leadership within communities across the United States, centering goals on economic and racial justice, authentic inclusion, and equity in health and well-being. We do this by providing coaching, training and technical assistance to trans leaders and organizations. We tailor our assistance to meet the needs of each unique person and organization. Additionally, TSC offers training and coaching to cisgender-led organizations that would like to do a better job of serving transgender communities.
Black Transwomen Inc.
Black Transwomen, Inc (BTWI) is a national nonprofit organization established to specifically address the urgent concerns facing African American transwomen in minority communities.
Since 2012, BTWI has committed to empowerment, providing the trans-feminine community with programs and resources to help inspire individual growth and contributions to the greater good of society to meet its mission of uplifting the voice, heart and soul of black transwomen.
Human Rights Campaign: Project One America
Project One America is a community-based program focusing on building a stronger LGBT presence and infrastructure. A full time local staff and dedicated office space in Jackson, MS, Montgomery, AL, and Little Rock, AR will support this effort.
Time Study
Time Study exists to empower organizations' greatest resource, people, to be the best they can be. That is the Future of Work powered by Time Intelligence. We bring Time Intelligence to organizations to help address their hardest challenges like turnover, burnout, organizational efficiencies and improved productivity.
Mocha Moms, Inc.
Mocha Moms, Inc. is the premier voice for mothers of color. Through chapters and online, Mocha Moms, Inc. provides support for women of color as they journey through all phases of motherhood while advocating for them nationally. Mocha Moms, Inc. also encourages the spirit of community activism and service among its members. Mocha Moms, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Mocha Moms, Inc. does not discriminate against any person, regardless of demographic status. Anyone who supports the mission and purpose of Mocha Moms is welcome to join.
The App Accelerator
The App Accelerator is an online training program for non-technical founders who are ready to execute their app ideas and expand their businesses without the technical overwhelm. Learn more about the program or how you can get started today by clicking the button below.
The Traveling Fro
Jakiya, popularly known as the Travelingfro is a Brand Strategist, CMO and Founder of The Travelingfro Brands L.L.C. A location independent consulting & media company that uses a strategic, fresh, and realistic approach to marketing to transform stories into influential brands.
TAO Leadership Development
TAO Leadership Development is passionate about the art of personal branding. We offer best-in-class coaching programs that uncover the authentic, unique presence within every leader and leverage it to drive powerful business results.
GlobalX Labs
We are providers of STEAM education initiatives and materials in Kenya.
The National Consortium of Diversity Practitioners (NCDP)
The National Consortium of Diversity Practitioners (NCDP) is a network that centers and supports Black professionals in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) space. NCDP is grounded in a Black radical & feminist traditions that prioritizes collective liberation over individual achievement. We seek to develop new and innovative strategies to eradicate social injustice, inequality, oppression-based trauma in all social institutions. Through our resource- and community-based approach, NCDP supports Black professionals as they navigate the world of DEIB and change management.
Diaspora Travel & Trade
Diaspora Travel & Trade is full-service consulting company specializing in the curation of travel experiences, commercial opportunities, relationships & networks, and related content for those Travelers and Traders interested in the "Americas." We have a particular focus on Sustainable Travel, Social Enterprise, and the commercial and cultural activities of Black and Indigenous communities of this region.
Wander Woman
Building 2 businesses, traveling the world, raising a teenage soccer star, and posing as an amateur chef - general super hero shit. @wanderwomaninc on IG
The Marks-Osborne Group LLC
Michelle Marks-Osborne is a philosophical consultant dedicated to advancing Inclusion, Equity & Belonging with services for individuals, groups, organizations, and corporations. She is a coach, trainer, and public speaker specializing in anti-racism, sexism, and social justice. She is an expert at moving beyond diversity and invites you to move with her.
Career Pathways
Barbara Mason is the Owner and Founder of Career Pathways Consulting and brings over 20 years experience in Human Resources. She has progressed in several HR leadership roles in a variety of industries and has worked with countless individuals in their careers. Barbara is a native of Huntsville, AL and graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management. She is a member of the national and local Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and also serves on the board of Project Corporate Leadership and IEHRA.
Up to Something LLC
We help individuals and organizations identify, clarify and pursue their vision and passion. We connect individuals and organizations to needed resources to realize their vision ie. financial, marketing, sales, business tools. We facilitate workshops and presentations for organizations, associations on topics focused on personal fulfillment, engaing employees and team members, starting Up to Something Groups etc.
The Shalizi Group
The Shalizi Group has quickly become one of the top entertainment and management companies in the industry. We live to break boundaries which has allowed us to manage some of the top multi-genre recording artists, DJ/Producers, and songwriters which includes household names such as Marshmello, Alesso, Jauz, Southside, Slushii and more. We support our growing roster through specialized in-house teams dedicated to talent management, digital marketing, merchandising, design, label services and brand development. TSG has partnerships with leaders in gaming, television, technology, consumer goods, fashion, and digital marketing, creating an ever-evolving platform for the success of our clients.
Born & Bread
Premium home-style desserts baked by Alissa Mayers in Brooklyn, NY. Specializing in pies, cakes, cookies, brownies, and delicious desserts.
Marti for Manhattan
Marti Allen-Cummings (They/Them) is an activist, community board member, gig worker and drag artist running for city council in uptown manhattan. Marti has been working in NYC for 13 years AFTER MOVING to the city AT AGE 17 to pursue a performing arts CAREER. They know what it's like to make it in New York living paycheck to paycheck and without insurance.
Speaker Spotlight: DEI Book Club Picks!
by Kryss Shane
The Calling: 3 Fundamental Shifts to Stay True, Get Paid and Do Good
by Rha Goddess
****************************************************
Thank you to all of our wonderful, amazing speakers! And thank you again for supporting Diversity Reboot 2021 and PowerToFly!
