Today’s leading employers are embracing neuroinclusive hiring practices, but there’s still much work to do. An estimated 85% of autistic college graduates are unemployed. That’s where Beacon Blazer alumni can make a powerful difference.
By joining the NEXT Connects co-mentorship program at Beacon, you’ll help support Beacon students ias they prepare to launch their careers. This unique opportunity brings together Beacon students and alumni to build meaningful connections, promote workplace inclusion, and support long-term professional success.
Fall 2025 Launch
We are currently recruiting Beacon students and alumni for our Fall 2025 cohort.
Mentorship matches will begin in October 2025, with meetings held virtually every other week at your convenience. After a winter break, the program will resume in Spring 2026 and conclude in May. Participants will complete a total of eight virtual meetings.
BEACON STUDENTS
ASPIRING PROFESSIONAL
If you’re neurodivergent and preparing to enter the workforce, this program is for you. Whether you’re still in school or recently graduated, NEXT Connects at Beacon will help you strengthen your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and build your network, with guidance from an Beacon alum from your field who understands your journey. BEACON ALUMNI
ESTABLISHED PROFESSIONALS
As a proud Beacon graduate with at least three years of work experience, you have valuable insight to share. Your career wisdom and your Beacon connection can help a student in the Bridges Program thrive. This is your chance to support the next generation on Blazer graduates while deepening your own knowledge of neuroinclusive workplace practices that you can share with your employers.
I got to learn about the specific ways job seekers find work in animation to expect once I secure employment. - Josh S. Aspring Professional
What's Included
Eight brief eLearnings to guide your mentorship journeyPre-designed discussion agendas for each session
Flexible scheduling: meet when it works for you (8 virtual sessions total)
Practical tools to promote neuroinclusion and career readiness
Certificate of completion and a meaningful way to reconnect with Beacon
At NEXT for AUTISM we believe that everyone deserves to live a productive and fulfilling life. Learn more about our programs and impact at NEXTforAUTISM.org
