Supporting Neurodivergent Employees: Autism and Neurodiversity at Work

​Bridging the gap between intention and impact in workplaces built for neurotypical norms

​Join Sydney Elaine Butler, Jessica Lee, Ben VanHook, and Ray McCoy as they discuss how most workplaces are designed for neurotypical people. This can make it harder for autistic and neurodivergent employees to feel supported, included, and understood.

​Managers and teams often don’t get the training or tools they need to work effectively with neurodivergent employees. Differences in communication, social interaction, or sensory needs are sometimes misunderstood as poor performance or lack of professionalism. Fear, uncertainty, and rigid workplace norms can create unintentional barriers.

​This session is designed for employers, managers, and teams who want to better support autistic and neurodivergent colleagues. We’ll keep the discussion simple, clear, and focused on what matters most. Together, we’ll talk about:

• ​Understanding neurodiversity — how different brains work and why that’s a strength

• ​Common challenges — why misunderstandings happen between managers, coworkers, and neurodivergent employees

• ​Disclosure and accommodations — how to create safe spaces and offer support without pressure

• ​Building inclusive teams — reducing social isolation and supporting positive relationships

• ​Practical steps to take — what managers and organizations can do right now to improve inclusion

​By learning to recognize and support neurodivergent employees, you help create a workplace where everyone can succeed, and where people can bring their strengths to the table without hiding who they are.