Harper Government Supports Innovative Pilot Program Assisting Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder Obtain Employment in the IT Industry

Marketwired

CALGARY, ALBERTA- – Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, together with the Honourable Mike Lake, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Mill Woods-Beaumont, announced an investment of $150,000 in support of a pilot program that is providing Information Technology (IT) skills training and career opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Federal funds supported the purchase of computing equipment and facility upgrades for the Sinneave Family Foundation and Autism Calgary’s new not-for-profit organization Meticulon Consulting Incorporated. Meticulon employs and trains talented people with ASD to carry out software testing, as well as deliver quality assurance and data verification services. This unique organization serves western Canada’s niche business needs in the technology, energy and related sectors by ensuring the specialized talents and skillset of Meticulon consultants are tailored to each IT contract.

Quick Facts

  • Research shows that individuals with ASD often possess an aptitude in delivering services, this pilot program aims to create meaningful careers for participants, while also providing businesses with access to skilled IT workers.
  • Meticulon consultants have been involved in many aspects of promoting their services, including presentations to employers and post-secondary institutions.
  • Meticulon has developed a tool kit for replicating the business model in western Canada.
  • With four businesses and six consultants involved in the Program, Meticulon is currently six months ahead of schedule. The organization is assessing their third cohort of potential employees to further build the robust infrastructure needed for their extensive training process.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE – http://finance.yahoo.com/news/harper-government-supports-innovative-pilot-160000828.html