176. Vance Checketts — Integrating Neurodiversity into Tech

Season 6 Episode 19: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Vance Checketts, CEO of auticon. Checketts discusses his career in technology, culminating in his current role at auticon, a company with a unique mission to integrate neurodivergent individuals, especially those with autism, into the tech workforce. Checketts emphasizes auticon's focus on providing talented autistic professionals to companies while also educating these companies on how to be more inclusive. He explains that neurodivergent individuals often possess exceptional data analysis, pattern recognition, and cybersecurity skills, making them invaluable assets to the tech industry. auticon's work aims to bridge the gap for these individuals who are often sidelined due to a lack of understanding and support in traditional workplaces. Checketts also discusses auticon's impact and its approach to helping both employees and companies. He outlines the company's comprehensive process, which includes assessments and tailored training to foster neuro-inclusivity. Checketts reveals auticon's plans to expand its mission globally and introduces its upcoming nonprofit initiative focused on training autistic individuals for tech roles. He encourages companies interested in becoming more inclusive to start by learning more about neurodiversity and considering partnerships with auticon to enhance their teams' productivity and inclusivity.