Ireland’s Autism Charity to host an Employment Seminar and Careers Event in Sligo

AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity, will host an Employment Seminar and Careers Event on Saturday, 7 February 2026 at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo campus. 

The event aims to bridge the significant employment gap facing the Autistic community in Ireland. Current data indicate that between 80-85% of Autistic adults in Ireland are unemployed or underemployed. This event, held in collaboration with the ATU Disability and Learning Support Service and the ATU Careers Service, seeks to transform this landscape by connecting neurodivergent talent with inclusive employers.

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The seminar, sponsored by IrishJobs, will feature a keynote address from AsIAm CEO Adam Harris and attendees will gain insights into neuro-affirmative recruitment practices and the "Same Chance" toolkit - a step-by-step guide designed to help organisations become autism-friendly employers.

"Diverse workplaces are more successful workplaces," said Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm. "The staggering unemployment rate within our community represents a massive loss of opportunity for Autistic people and talent for Irish employers and businesses. This event is about changing mindsets and showing that small, inexpensive adjustments in how we work can unlock incredible potential, benefitting both the employee and the employer."

This event offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to empower Autistic jobseekers and foster inclusive hiring practices. Attendees can gain high-level insights from expert seminars featuring the AsIAm Employment Team and the Department of Social Protection, while the Practical Workshops provide hands-on training in CV development and interview techniques. 

A key feature of the day is the Accessibility Lab, an interactive experience hosted by The Stepstone Group that challenges unconscious bias and demonstrates the tangible benefits of inclusive recruitment. Beyond the structured sessions, the event facilitates meaningful networking, allowing participants to connect directly with inclusive employers, educational bodies, and specialised autism service organisations.

The event is free to attend and welcomes Autistic jobseekers, family members, and business leaders looking to diversify their workforce.

Interested participants can register via the AsIAm website. AsIAm is Ireland’s Autism Charity.

They state: “We are dedicated to removing the invisible barriers often faced by Autistic people and families, so that every Autistic person can enjoy the same chance in society. AsIAm is Autistic-led and we are dedicated to transforming society, working for Autistic people and their families. 

“We advocate for our community by raising awareness of Autism and providing training and accreditation to schools, third level education institutions, employers and organisations on how to become more Autism-friendly.

“Through our policy work we regularly engage directly with the Autistic community and produce reports and policy submissions to government and other state bodies. We run Child and Family support programmes as well as Adult Support and Wellbeing programmes which provide safe and relaxed support spaces for Autistic children and adults. We issue Autism ID Cards which act as a powerful tool for people of all ages to navigate their daily routines. Our dedicated Autism Information Line is available Monday-Thursday from 10am-3pm for Autism specific information and signposting.”