Microsoft Launches Pilot Program to Hire Individuals with Autism

 Post by Mary Ellen Smith, Corporate Vice President, Worldwide Operations,  for Microsoft.

In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, Thursday, I had the privilege to attend and speak at an event held at the United Nations in New York City, where the theme was “Autism, The Employment Advantage.”

This theme resonates with me on two levels.
First, as a parent. I am the proud mom of Shawn, now 19, diagnosed with autism when he was four years old. Secondly, as a proud executive at Microsoft. A company that believes strongly in diversity.