UTSA to receive $9 million grant to help close the employment gap for adults who are neurodiverse

The team plans to define and operationalize employer expectations through task analysis then use these job expectations as training goals for prospective employees.

"This process molds the employees' expectations to align with those of the employers, ensuring a better match," added Davis.

In addition to aligning expectations, the team will also focus on aligning employee skills to employer needs. The training program will include a number of phases, including exploring available jobs, shadowing and analyzing specific roles to create an "employee blueprint," training for the role, job placement and follow-up support.

"We are partnering with Adel Alaeddini from SMU to develop generative AI training simulations and continue training until job seekers are prepared for the tasks and interactions the job requires," explained Neely, co-principal Investigator on the project. "We will also collaborate with employers to develop training materials, ensuring our trainees receive the most relevant and in-demand skills."

Hosting the trainings and providing additional expertise is Morgan's MAC, a San Antonio-based center that improves the lives of individuals with disabilities and special needs through comprehensive and coordinated services using a unique model to provide access to medical and non-medical resources.

"This grant is a game-changer for our community," said Sara Patton, director of community and partner engagement for Morgan's MAC. "By providing targeted training and support, we can bridge the gap between the skills of individuals with disabilities and the needs of employers, creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace."

Also supporting the project is the UTSA Brain Health Consortium, a multidisciplinary center connecting over 80 researchers studying brain science and brain disorders including Alzheimer's and epilepsy. Neely and Davis are among the researchers working in psychology and learning, one of the center's four research pillars.