Presenter: James Emmett, M.S.

The number of individuals with autism spectrum disorders moving into the workforce is skyrocketing. High schools, transition programs, and community rehabilitation providers are facing the challenge of providing quality educational and job training services to a rapidly growing number of students with autism spectrum disorders. The key to success is creative career planning that focuses on utilizing the individual's strengths and interests.  

Job seekers with autism spectrum disorders bring diverse talents to the business world and more companies across the country are recognizing this fact.  With the support of innovative career planning, people with autism have the opportunity to reach any goal that they set for themselves.

This two day training covers all the essentials for successful career planning. Topics such as career assessment, career portfolios, workplace social communication, and business collaboration will be highlighted. James will focus on key strategies that will help individuals with autism spectrum disorders find not just jobs, but long-term career success.  This interactive session contains five "take away" strategies each day that participants will be able to apply to their current situation immediately.

James Emmett, M.S., is a national leader in development of employment services for persons with autism spectrum disorders as well as in assisting corporations in creation of  outreach efforts to the disability and autism communities. He is an individual with a disability  and a parent of three daughters with disabilities.

James currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Integrated Behavioral Systems and is a Partner in the consulting firm Two Steps Forward. He graduated with a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from  Illinois Institute of Technology. James recently completed 1.5 years working as the Disability  Program Manager for Walgreens helping set up the company's national disability initiative. He also assisted Easter Seals National in laying the foundation for their national autism services network.