Employer FAQ

How much does it cost to register?

National employers: $500
Regional employers: $100
All fees go toward supporting the delivery of accessible and inclusive career fairs.

Over 100 inclusive employers have participated across the years. Each year the number continues to grow.

In 2024, more than 3,000 autistic job seekers took part in the fair. We expect similar or higher attendance in 2025.

Virtual fair:
12 PM to 5 PM Eastern
11 AM to 4 PM Central
10 AM to 3 PM Mountain
9 AM to 2 PM Pacific

In-person fair start times will be shared by location.

Your registration includes a virtual or in-person booth space, access to job seekers, and support from the Spectrum Works team. You
will also receive pre-event tips and inclusion guidance.

Yes. You can choose one or more events during registration.

Austim-Friendly Hiring and Retention Practices

Selecting a candidate

In the job posting, avoid qualifications that are not essential to the job:

  • Waive previous job experience and education requirements in favour of demonstrated aptitudes and skills
  • Replace interview with informal meeting and skills assessment or consult with an expert to modify your interview process
  • If an interview is a must, provide:
    • When, where, with who, and dress code
    • Permission to request adjustments
    • Interview questions or examples of the types of questions that will be asked
    • Practice papers/assignments to assess technical ability

To support a smooth onboarding process, consider the following actions:

  • Have workstation and accommodations ready
  • Assign team mentor
  • Educate staff about ASD
  • Plan the first day – who, what, when, where, how
  • Revisit harassment & bullying policies
  • Provide hours, breaks, dress code, and facilities information

On the first day, provide:

  • A tour of the workplace
  • Introductions to the team
  • An overview of policies and procedures
  • A clear explanation of job tasks and what to expect

During the probation period, provide:

  • Step-by-step job training
  • Support from a job coach or mentor
  • Clear and written work assignments
  • Clear expectations for how the job will be measured
  • Regular and respectful feedback
  • Autism awareness training for the team

To support long-term success, provide:

  • Flexibility to take breaks and manage stress
  • Advance notice when there are changes to routines or tasks
  • Ongoing coaching and support

Support for the employee:

  • Job coaching that builds confidence and skills

Support for the team:

  • Autism training for managers, coworkers, and human resources

During performance reviews:

  • Set clear goals and expectations
  • Let the employee know when they are doing well
  • Give reminders about how to stay on track

To support growth and advancement:

  • Explain career paths and how to take the next step
  • Offer short-term projects or try-outs for new roles within the team

Register Now

Spectrum Works is a national career fair designed to connect inclusive employers, job seekers on the autism spectrum, and service providers. Join us online or in person to explore new opportunities, build relationships, and support inclusive employment.