Title: Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace: Stories of Autistic Adults Finding Success
When Chelsia Potts took her 10-year-old daughter to a psychologist to be tested for autism spectrum disorder, she never expected to be diagnosed herself. Like her daughter, Ms. Potts, a high-level administrator at Miami University, was also found to be on the autism spectrum. This revelation led her to reflect on how her diagnosis would impact her work life.
Ms. Potts, initially confused by the diagnosis, had spent years masking her disability in order to appear as a model employee. She struggled in group settings, forced herself to smile and appear enthusiastic, and avoided bright lights and noise in the workplace. After six months of wrestling with her diagnosis, she finally opened up to a university official, leading to positive changes such as receiving accommodations for a more flexible work schedule.
The increasing number of autism diagnoses in the United States has prompted large employers like Microsoft, Dell, and Ford to make workplaces more accessible and welcoming for neurodivergent employees. With 1 in 36 8-year-olds and 2.2% of adults in the country being autistic, the need for inclusive work environments is more important than ever.
Microsoft’s neurodiversity hiring program, which has brought in about 300 full-time neurodivergent employees, has been praised for its inclusive process. Employees like Natalie Worden-Cowe have benefited from accommodations such as extra time to answer questions and downtime between meetings, as well as job coaches and mentors to support their success.
Despite the challenges faced by autistic individuals in the job market, advocates like Haley Moss emphasize the importance of creating more opportunities for neurodivergent people. By redefining the image of a boss and promoting neurodivergent individuals to leadership roles, workplaces can become more inclusive and supportive for all employees.
For Murphy Monroe, being diagnosed with autism later in life changed how he approached his work as the executive director of a circus school. Embracing his authentic self and providing accommodations for himself and his co-workers has created a more understanding and supportive work environment.
As more companies recognize the value of neurodiversity in the workplace, the hope is that stories like those of Ms. Potts, Ms. Worden-Cowe, and Mr. Monroe will inspire others to embrace their differences and thrive in their careers.
