Setting a shining example of an inclusive workforce by providing employment opportunities for young adults with Autism
Spectrum Designs is a non-profit organization founded by Stella Spanakos, Nicole Sugrue, and Patrick Bardsley in 2011 alongside their partner agency Nicholas Center which provides vocational training to young adults with Autism. Spectrum Designs is a fully functioning apparel customization shop with the mission of providing gainful employment and meaningful work opportunities to individuals with Autism within a social enterprise, to assist them in leading fulfilling, independent and productive lives. Spectrum Designs is a valuable pillar of our society that is motivating an inclusive workforce and giving an encouraging message to the rest of companies and industry to enhance inclusiveness for the betterment of the community.
Thank you Spectrum Designs for your time and useful tips. Your positive steps towards an inclusive workforce are inspirational. More Info
Today, Spectrum Designs has 36 employees, 22 of which are on the Autism Spectrum.
Work related questions:
Q: What kind of recruiting process is in place to employ candidates with disabilities?
A: We work closely with the Nicholas Center, which provide vocational training to our employees. The center seeks to understand and respond to the specific needs of each individual. Through our partnership, they provide support to individuals allowing them to be productive and to work in a meaningful way.
Q: What kind of training is given to new employees to get them ready for the job? What is the usual training duration?
A: Spectrum Designs offers a 3 to 4 month training period, where after 1 month an employee is reviewed by their direct supervisor, allowing them to express any questions or concerns. After 3 months time they will sit down again to discuss goals and receive feedback. Spectrum Designs also offers training throughout the year for various departments. For example, our Head of Screen Printing has hosted a department training with the goal of understanding the various roles of our very diverse team. If an employee needs a higher level of training this is done by our partner agency, the Nicholas Center and overseen by Spectrum Designs.
Q: What is the general skill set that you look for in a candidate with disabilities?
A: Any skill set! We receive resumes via Indeed and Craigslist, in addition through our partner agency at various levels and skill sets! Every candidate can be trained and will often times find out in that way what they like/ dislike.
Q: What is your suggestion/tips for families of children with disabilities who want to get their kids ready for employment?
A: Allowing kids to express themselves and being open to their interests and abilities. Finding places where children/ young adults can excel, like Spectrum Designs where they are ultimately able use their unique skills and talents to succeed.
Q: What is the best way to accelerate awareness and promote an inclusive workforce?
A: The best way for Spectrum Designs has been to provide support. Sometimes this means 1-on-1 support, sometimes it means emotional support- whatever it may be we aim to provide a level of support to enable all employees to work to their highest potential so they can live a life of meaning all while being productive within the workplace.
