About
Spectrum Advantage
Connecting Inclusive Businesses With Qualified Professionals
Spectrum Advantage
We are committed to connecting qualified autistic professionals to inclusive businesses. Approximately 85% of people currently identified as living on the autism spectrum are underemployed or unemployed. For many, difficulty regulating social information and unconventional communication skills are a barrier to obtaining employment. And the problem is growing. Recent statistics indicate that one in 68 children born in 2014 will be identified as living on the autism spectrum.
Spectrum Advantage was created as a response to the need for employment experience for individuals with autism between the ages of 18 and 30. Spearheaded by Autism Calgary, and the generous funding of the Government of Canada as well as the Sinneave Family Foundation, this groundbreaking program, (the only one of it’s kind in Canada) opened it’s doors in May of 2014.
Proudly Affiliated
creating awareness and driving change for neurodiverse individuals
Participants Served
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Hired Long Term
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Retention Rate
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Businesses Trained
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Core Services
Spectrum Advantage is 16- week government funded program that sets neurodiverse individuals up for success in the workplace.
Classroom Training
4-weeks of classroom training
Classroom Training
We offer training to individuals on the autism spectrum between 18-30 that provides them with the tools they need to be prepared for the workforce.
Work Experience
12-week employment experience
Work Experience
Our initiative offers qualified individuals the opportunity to gain valuable professional work experience.
Employment Coaching
Employment coaching
Employment Coaching
We offer 1-on-1 employment coaching to bridge any gaps between employers and employees for the first 12 weeks.
Testimonials
What Clients Think
"Our first intern from Spectrum Advantage helped us secure a $2,400 grant, set up royalty software with those funds, and conducted orientation for the next incoming intern."
"We've had a fantastic partnership, and I'm very pleased that we continued with it. I don't see us stopping anytime soon."
"I found a job at Calgary Board of Education as an Educational Assistant and am very thankful for the ways that Spectrum Advantage helped to facilitate my success."
Wait there's more!
Additional Services
Through our association with Ready, Willing & Able (RWA), Spectrum Advantage is please to provide Post-Secondary supports to students on the autism spectrum.
Academic Strategy Sessions
Coaching Supports
Organizational Tools
Advocacy for Accommodations
Our Team
Meet Our Qualified Team
Rebecca Small
Education & Client Services Manager
Carmen Ragan
Internship & Special Projects Manager
Shakeyra Mason
Marketing & Community Engagement Specialist
Edith Burnage
Autism Employment Coach & Facilitator
Our Community Partners
These inclusive businesses are changing the workforce, one diverse hire at a time.
