Microsoft is a company who builds software for everyone including the disabled, and now the company is taking the next step with a new pilot program to hire individuals with Autism. Announced on World Autism Day, Microsoft talked about the new program at the United Nations offices in New York City.
The company is teaming up with Specialisterne to trial a pilot program at their Redmond offices to hire individuals with Autism for full time positions. Microsoft believes that they have a diverse workforce and this trial program will open up new doors for more individuals to bring their talents to the company.
Microsoft"s Corporate Vice President of Worldwide operations, Mary Ellen Smith said that "Microsoft is stronger when we expand opportunity and we have a diverse workforce that represents our customers. People with autism bring strengths that we need at Microsoft, each individual is different, some have amazing ability to retain information, think at a level of detail and depth or excel in math or code."
This trial by Microsoft is a beacon of light for individuals with Autism and you can bet that many will be watching closely to see show this program shapes the future of the company.
Microsoft is not the only company who has pursued individuals with disabilities. Another large corporation who has a similar program is Kroger; they routinely hire disabled individuals to work in their retail outlets.