Welcome to the latest edition of the HAAPE Monthly Newsletter!
Each month, we share exciting updates, resources, and stories from across the country focused on improving employment opportunities for autistic individuals. This edition highlights our new Chicago workforce initiative and key moments from the SME Fusion Conference.
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HAAPE Launches Chicagoland Autistic Workforce Development Ecosystem
HAAPE recently announced the establishment of its Chicago Chapter and the formation of the Chicago Autistic Workforce Ecosystem, a groundbreaking collaborative initiative with founding members Little Friends, Aspiritech, and Autonomy Works.
This strategic partnership brings together four organizations at the forefront of creating employment opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum, combining decades of experience in workforce development, job placement, and support services.
HAAPE collaboration featured at SME Fusion Conference in April
The SME Fusion 2025 in Detroit, MI featured an expert panel discussion on “Neurodiversity in Manufacturing,” where Tara May from Aspiritech, Tara Havlicek from Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation, and Joann Blumenfeld of North Carolina State University and HAAPE’s Raleigh, NC Chapter Director explored innovative approaches to autistic employment in the manufacturing sector.
The panel, moderated by Uniquely Abled Project board member Toni Neary, brought together perspectives from employment services, manufacturing, and technology to discuss creating meaningful career opportunities and workforce development strategies—including highlighting how the HAAPE tapestry of people weaves together!
HAAPE Spotlight
Danny Combs
HAAPE Board of Directors member Danny Combs has recently taken on a new position with the state of Colorado.
In his appointment as the Inaugural Director at Colorado Disability Opportunity Office, Danny will continue his advocacy for the disabled community on a larger scale. As co-founder of TACT, he will remain on the board. Congratulations, Danny!
Resource Corner
- Want to help us empower autistic individuals to obtain meaningful and sustainable careers? No donation is too small!
- The rise of digitized hiring assessments means more disabled jobseekers are being unfairly screened out of opportunities. The Center for Democracy & Technology examined this trend and made recommendations for more equitable hiring practices.
- HAAPE’s Annual Report has been published! Take a look at what we’ve achieved together.
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