Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode, Rob Gorski speaks with Anthony Pacillio, Vice President of Neurodiverse Solutions at CAI, about the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face when entering the workforce. Anthony shares his journey of building neurodiversity programs, his personal experiences as someone with social anxiety and depression, and how these have fueled his passion for helping others succeed in employment.

Rob and Anthony dive deep into critical topics, including how companies can create supportive environments for neurodivergent employees, the importance of early preparation, and the need for strength-based approaches in both education and the workplace. They also discuss the "cliff" many neurodivergent individuals face when they age out of school-based services and transition into adulthood. Rob shares his personal experience helping his son navigate employment, offering valuable insights for parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children.

Key Takeaways: 

- Creating Neurodiverse Work Environments: Anthony explains how companies can build effective neurodiversity programs that not only provide opportunities but also support individuals through personalized accommodations.

- The Importance of Early Preparation: Both Rob and Anthony stress the importance of starting employment preparation early, teaching skills and building confidence throughout childhood and adolescence.

- Overcoming Barriers to Employment: Anthony highlights the success stories of neurodivergent individuals thriving in various industries, from software engineering to healthcare.

- Personal Growth and Advocacy: Anthony and Rob share their personal journeys—how understanding their own neurodivergence has shaped their perspectives as parents and advocates.

Resources Mentioned: 

- CAI Neurodiverse Solutions: [cai.io](https://cai.io) 

- Autism Society of America 

- Ohio's Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) program

Connect with Anthony Pacillio: 

Website: cai.io

Follow Rob Gorski: 

Website: https://www.theautismdad.com

Instagram: @TheAutismDad

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