Each October during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we take time to recognize the many contributions of people with disabilities to America’s workplaces and economy.

NDEAM provides the opportunity to educate people across the nation about disability employment issues, promote the power and importance of inclusion, and help foster a workplace where all employees are recognized for their unique abilities every day of the year.

In this month’s issue of E-Speaks, you’ll read about five autistic people’s employment journeys, learn how two women are working to drive disability inclusion in the workforce, and find resources that will give you the tools to plan for your future, search for a job and navigate the workplace.

In our own words: Why NDEAM is an important step towards building a more inclusive workplace

Hank, Annie, William, Mallory and Andy all have a range of passions, skills and challenges that have led them down very different career paths. In this series of profiles, they share their thoughts on employment, the job search experience, the challenges and triumphs they’ve experienced as autistic employees, the importance of inclusion in the workplace and much more!

The job market for employees with autism is shifting—for the better!

Dr. Carol Schall and Jennifer McDonough are two professionals at Virginia Commonwealth University working to connect autistic job seekers with fulfilling employment opportunities. Over the past 9 months, they have noticed a transformation in the job market, with more autistic people joining the workforce than ever before. Learn how they are helping companies become more inclusive for people with autism in this expert Q&A.

Workplace Inclusion Now is creating meaningful job opportunities for all

Need help finding a job that's right for you? Or are you an employer looking to recruit dedicated and talented employees who you may have never considered before? Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN) is Autism Speaks’ evidence-based employment system designed to build and support inclusive workplace culture through a virtual training program. Click here to learn how WIN can help support your employment needs.

Autism Speaks’ Employment Tool Kit can help you find and keep the right job

Finding a job is a challenge for everyone, but our Employment Tool Kit can help people with autism research, apply for positions and navigate the workplace so they can thrive at work. In this Tool Kit, you’ll find job-related stories, tips and information ranging in topic from navigating the job search to understanding your employment rights and creating workplace accommodations. Although this guide is written by and for people with autism, it can also be helpful for family members, service providers, business leaders and others supporting people with autism.

Transition Roadmap to meaningful employment

To help prepare people with autism and their families for the transition to adulthood, Autism Speaks is pleased to present the Transition Roadmap to Meaningful Employment. This Roadmap is a great resource for autistic students planning for life after high school, young autistic adults looking for information about employment and even parents or caregivers of a person with autism.

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