Specialisterne USA Academy

To apply, you must:

• Be an autistic adult (18+)
• Be authorized to work lawfully in the United States
• Be located anywhere in the United States and able to participate in live sessions scheduled in Eastern Time (ET)
• Be available to commit 30 hours per week for 8 weeks
• Have a high school diploma (or equivalent) prior to the program start
• Be interested in learning about tech
• Be motivated to pursue employment in technology-related roles

What will I need?

• A computer or a laptop
• Reliable internet access
• A quiet, suitable place to learn

Technical Skills

• IT fundamentals (IT support, troubleshooting, and security basics)
• Foundations of artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Real-world applications of AI in the workplace
• Ethical and responsible use of AI and technology

Participants will complete an applied technical project aligned with the program’s focus area. This project is designed to simulate real-world tasks and challenges and will result in a concrete work sample participants can reference in resumes, interviews, and networking conversations.

Workplace & Career Readiness Skills 

Through workshops and coaching sessions, you will:

• Identify and practice key transferable workplace skills
• Break down soft skills into observable behaviors
• Build self-awareness around strengths, needs, and supports
• Explore workplace preferences, values, and role fit
• Learn strategies for disclosure and accommodations
• Prepare for interviews
• Clarify job direction, goals, and next steps

By the end, you will have a personalized website, developed throughout the program, that highlights skills, experience, strengths, workplace preferences, and support needs. With participant consent, this profile may be shared to support employment and networking opportunities.

Weeks 1–8: Structured Learning & Application

• Follow a consistent 3-day per week schedule that includes live sessions, group activities, and reflection
• Complete self-paced eLearning modules alongside weekly expectations
• Build knowledge in core tech areas, including AI, throughout the program
• Participate in live, instructor-led technical sessions each week
• Attend weekly stand-ups to share progress, plans, and blockers
• Engage in employment readiness workshops focused on workplace success
• Receive one-on-one coaching support for individualized guidance
• Apply learning through a hands-on technical project completed over the 8 weeks

Participants will also collaborate with peers in a virtual environment. Video participation is required for group sessions.

Is this a full-time program?

The Academy requires a moderate, structured time commitment of about 30 hours per week, offering more flexibility than a full-time program while still providing consistent support and engagement.

Will I receive a job at the end of the academy?

The Academy is an Employment prep program; a job is not guaranteed at the end.

Is there a cost to join the program?

No, this program is free.

Can I apply if I already have some IT experience?

Yes. The program is suitable for beginners and for individuals with basic IT knowledge who want to strengthen their skills and build foundational AI knowledge.

What happens after I apply?

Eligible applicants will be contacted by email with the next steps, which may include a discussion meeting and a test module through IBM Skillsbuild.

Who can I contact with questions or accommodation needs?

If you need help with your application or have questions, contact us at [email protected].