Article contributed by LAUNCH Academy participant and Department of Child and Family Studies intern Ashtyn Hyde.
Students on the autism spectrum are gaining the skills, confidence and real-world experience needed to navigate career pathways with greater independence through the LAUNCH transition program on 51's Tampa campus.
LAUNCH is focused on improving employment and postsecondary outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. It offers employment services, employer solutions, youth career camps, and technology programs with certifications in cybersecurity and robotic process automation. LAUNCH Academy, established in 2009, prepares students with autism spectrum disorder for employment, college and independent living. The 30-week program is split into two semesters.
A LAUNCH Academy student participating in the mock job fair held earlier this year. The job fair provides an opportunity for students to gain experience introducing themselves and interacting with potential employers.
In the first semester, students build social skills, learn workplace rights, and set personal, academic and career goals. In the second semester, they apply those skills through applied learning experiences, or ALEs, which introduce them to real work environments. Internships are tailored to students’ interests and needs, and staff use community partnerships to place students in shadowing opportunities.
Julia Bachenheimer secured an ALE at AdventHealth through a family connection, gaining experience in a hospital setting.
“I mostly sorted papers, filed documents and transported paperwork,” Bachenheimer said. “The environment was very friendly, so I decided to pursue that path.”
Some students enter with clear career goals, while others focus on short-term employment and building independence and social skills.
Drew Holzum said he learned how to conduct himself in an interview and take responsibility for himself and his belongings.
“I feel prepared to take on life as an adult because of LAUNCH,” he said. After graduation, he hopes to work at Chick-fil-A or Publix.
This cohort will graduate on April 30. Family, friends, mentors and community partners are invited to attend to celebrate the students' achievements.
Applications for the academy open each spring, with a new cohort beginning in August. Information about LAUNCH, LAUNCH Academy and other programs offered is available on the .