Candidates

Specialized Training

Paid Internship

Employment Coaching

CANDIDATES apply below

Ready To Take The Next Step In Your Career?

Spectrum Advantage is designed to support individuals who live on the autism spectrum find and retain employment.

Our four month initiative includes four weeks of paid job readiness preparation training classes specifically geared towards people living on the autism spectrum, followed by a minimum of 12 weeks paid employment for program graduates. During the first 12 weeks of employment, both Spectrum Advantage participants and employers are supported by an Autism Employment Specialist. 

  • Are you a qualified professional who is unable to find a job?
  • Are you a motivated person who is ready to start a new phase of development in your life?
  • Are you tired of being turned down after an interview or simply afraid of attending one?

Main Features

Our program has served over 200+ students and has seen 80% hired on long term.

Specialized Training

Specialized Training

4 weeks of paid in-class job-readiness training designed for people living with autism.

Paid Internship

Paid Internship

12 weeks paid employment for program graduates.

Employment Coaching

Employment Coaching

One-on-one employment coaching. 

"Before I joined the Spectrum Advantage program, I applied to 137 jobs with no interviews or call backs. After being part of the Spectrum Advantage program, I was hired in my chosen field in a position that I loved, and had the opportunity to work in a role I excelled in for 5 years."
Previous Student
Spectrum Advantage Alumni

The Process

So you’re interested in joining the program but need more information on what to expect? This roadmap is for you!

  • Application

    Once you have submitted your application items, you will be contacted for an interview to determine if you are a good fit for the program.

  • Classes Begin

    Classes are 4 weeks (Mon-Thurs 9am to 2-m). You can expect both in-person and online classes. Class schedule + Zoom links will be sent out in advance.

  • Ready to Work

    After we have completed the in-class training we work with you to find jobs that fit, with opportunity to be placed in a 12-week paid internship.

  • Employment Coaching

    During your internship, you are paired with an Employment Coach for 1-on-1 support to bridge any communication gaps.

Application Information

Our core program operates in three cohorts annually (January, May, and September). Once your application is submitted, a representative will reach out to you with additional details and to arrange an interview. 

(This information and the applications below are specifically for Spectrum Advantage’s core program)

  • Candidates must be 18-30 yrs old
  • Candidates must NOT be registered in a secondary school
  • Candidates must be able to work independently without an aide or support worker.
  • Candidates must reside in Calgary and area

Applications Open

OUR SEPTMEBER COHORT IS CLOSED. SUBMIT AN APPLICATION HERE FOR OUR NEXT COHORT. This one-step Adobe Form allows you to fill, sign and submit the Application, Work Readiness Checklist and a resume to our team.

What To Expect

Our four month initiative includes four weeks of paid job readiness preparation classes specifically geared towards people living on the autism spectrum, followed by a minimum of 12 weeks paid employment for program graduates. During the first 12 weeks of employment, both Spectrum Advantage participants and employers are supported by an Autism Employment Specialist.

Social Nuance of the workplace

Social Nuance of the workplace

 

Dive into the nuances of workplace communication. Gain an understanding of the spoken and unspoken rules that govern the workplace.

Nuances of Interviews, Resumes & Cover Letters

Nuances of Interviews, Resumes & Cover Letters

 

Put your best foot forward with a well written resume and cover letter. Take advantage of our mock interview practice to interview confidently and secure your new career. 

Managing Stress & Anxiety

Managing Stress & Anxiety

 

All Spectrum Advantage coaches are mental health professionals. Students are given practical tools and resources to manage stress and anxiety. 

Other Services

Through our partnership with Ready Willing & Able, we are pleased to provide post-secondary support.

Are you currently employed but in need of additional employment coaching and support?

Are you worried you might lose your job because of workplace nuances?

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Interested?