Conference Schedule

Join Danny Combs, Director of the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office, for a compelling keynote on the transformative power of neurodiversity in the workforce. As a leader in disability advocacy and workplace inclusion, Danny will share actionable insights on how businesses can leverage neurodiverse talent to drive innovation and strengthen teams. Attendees will gain strategies for fostering inclusivity, shaping policies, and creating opportunities across sectors. Whether you're an advocate, policymaker, or employer, this session will equip you with the tools to make neurodiversity a strategic advantage and build workplaces where every individual’s strengths are recognized and valued. [More...]

This session explores how businesses can unlock the potential of neurodiverse talent by creating job opportunities that align with their unique abilities. A diverse panel of employers and neurodiverse employees will share firsthand experiences, showcasing innovative strategies for workplace inclusion. Attendees will gain practical insights on tailoring roles to fit neurodiverse individuals, fostering supportive environments, and leveraging their strengths to drive organizational success. From entry-level positions to specialized careers, this discussion highlights how embracing neurodiversity benefits both employees and businesses, offering actionable takeaways for leaders, HR professionals, and advocates seeking to build more inclusive workplaces. [More...]

This session explores the transformative impact of The Uniquely Abled Project (UAP) in creating inclusive employment opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. Moderator Ivan Rosenberg, UAP Founder, leads a discussion featuring an employer, a UAP graduate, and a parent, sharing their journey of collaboration and success. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of hiring neurodiverse talent, the challenges and triumphs of workforce integration, and strategies for replicating the UAP model. Through powerful personal stories, this session highlights how shifting mindsets leads to a “triple win” for employees, employers, and communities, fostering inclusive, competitive employment opportunities. [More...]

This session explores evidence-based strategies to improve the interview and onboarding process for neurodiverse talent. Attendees will learn how to identify and address common barriers, mitigate bias, and create a more inclusive hiring experience. Experts will share innovative approaches to redesign interviews, reduce stress for candidates, and highlight their strengths and potential. By implementing these best practices, organizations can build long-term strategies that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. This session is essential for hiring managers, HR professionals, and business leaders looking to unlock the full potential of neurodiverse employees from the start. [More...]

Join Melanie Whetzel, Principal Consultant at the Job Accommodation Network (JAN), for an insightful session on the vital role successful job accommodations play in benefiting the entire workforce. Drawing from over 30 years of experience in disability employment, Melanie will share trusted, practical solutions to help employers recognize and support the valuable contributions of neurodiverse employees. This session will provide expert guidance on effective workplace accommodations, strategies to enhance productivity, and ways to create an environment where all employees can thrive. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. [More...]

Traditional hiring practices often overlook neurodivergent talent—but what if we reimagine the process? In this engaging session, Neil Barnett, Director of Inclusive Hiring and Accessibility at Microsoft will share his experience transforming inclusive hiring to leverage the talents of neurodivergent employees. He will highlight collaborations, resources and tools that can create real and lasting change including Microsoft’s Neurodiversity Hiring Program, the Neurodiversity at Work Employer Roundtable, and Disability:IN's Neurodiversity Career Connector Tool. [More...]

Rajesh Anandan, Co-Founder and CEO of Ultranauts, shares how a universal design approach can create truly inclusive workplaces. With 75% of Ultranauts' workforce identifying as neurodivergent or autistic, the company has pioneered scalable solutions that remove barriers and empower all employees. This session moves beyond traditional DEI efforts, offering proactive, systemic strategies to foster inclusion. Attendees will gain insights into proven methodologies like Universal Workplace™, Design for Neurodiversity™, and Inclusive Agile™, learning how to integrate inclusive hiring, onboarding, and management practices. Walk away with actionable tools to enhance team performance, boost retention, and drive measurable business success through systemic inclusion. [More...]