Computers, Coding, and Autism: They Go Well Together

To look at the world today, specifically regarding the nature of work, it is hard not to conclude that there has never been a better time for someone with any degree of autism to be on this Earth today, with regard to suitable work opportunities.

Case in point:  today’s world is more technologically-reliant than ever.  Using computers has never been more central to so many people’s jobs.  Information technology these days is an integral part of companies’ operations.  To most companies, IT is a core department, along with accounting/finance, marketing, human resources, and operations (also, engineering, depending on the industry).  Even if a company does not have its own IT department, it will still farm out its IT to contractors.

Whatever the case may be, it takes knowledge of coding and computer science to make sure a company’s IT runs smoothly, and to ensure that its work station computers and their software function properly.  More to the point:  these vital skills are very much in-demand, any a sizeable plurality of those of us on the autism spectrum are mentally and temperamentally well-suited for these tasks.

So many of us “on the spectrum” seem to gravitate towards computers at an early age.  I got my first taste of computers playing educational games on a floppy disk-driven Apple when I was still in preschool, and got instantly hooked. Later, I found myself getting on and using computers for games and graphic design every chance I got while growing up.  Even today, I still find myself spending a fair amount of time on my own laptop, and that’s when I’m not using my computer-issued laptop for work.

Those of us with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can potentially excel at computer programming, and for three reasons:  we are logical in our thinking; we thrive on predictability; most of us are visual learners.  Computer programming encompasses all three, key things.

Let us break it down further:

Logical:  Those of us with ASD tend to have left side-dominated brains.  That is to say, we tend to be more logical than emotional.  This logical orientation puts us in the position to do well in math.  Computer science draws on these same skill sets.  Also, IT jobs require precision and repetition – two things those of us with ASD also do well – such as updating databases, coding, and analytics.

Predictable:  Many of us with ASD enjoy nothing better than to gather and organize large amounts of data into something that will yield predictable results.  Moreover, the filter of a computer screen gives those of us on the autism spectrum an increased control over our interactions; we value such control very highly.  The combination of covering large amounts of information with predictable outcomes is something that calms down those of us with ASD.

Visual:  As previously noted, most of us with ASD are visual learners (this certainly includes yours truly).  This helps a ton, since computer programming deals heavily in visual information.  We therefore have an advantage over our neurotypical friends when it comes to this line of work.

To focus on what specific IT work would be the best bet for those of us with ASD, look no further than Computer Programmer.  There is plenty of call for this work in a variety of industries and applications.  Industrial automation, software design, communications networks, network systems, as well as business computers all require computer programming, and jobs are readily available.

Most programmers are required to be skilled in the computer languages of Java, JavaScript, and Microsoft C#, for starters.  Certifications in these languages are sometimes required, so better to be safe than sorry and resolved to do what is necessary to earn such [practical] credentials.  Also, programming jobs typically require a BS (that’s bachelor’s of science) degree in either Computer Programming or Computer Programming Technology.

Software and Web Developer is another viable option in the IT field for those of us with ASD.  It does not pay quite as well as Computer Programmer ($73K vs $86K on average for both jobs), but it typically requires an associate’s degree instead of a bachelor’s.  It too requires skills in Java and Javascript, as well as HTML5, so be sure to get those certifications however you can.  With web development, you grow in tangible experience as you grow your own portfolio.  The bigger your portfolio of successful jobs, the bigger and higher-paying jobs will likely come your way.  Indeed, this is a good job for those who have an entrepreneurial bend and would like to own your own company someday.

There are other viable computer-related jobs in IT out there that those of us on the spectrum can also participate.  Further exploration of those other opportunities, to say nothing of the necessary education and certifications you will need all merit such necessary examination, which we are resolved to do in subsequent articles.

Wherever and however you do land a job in IT, always be mindful that this cutting-edge field is ever-changing (and that is not a bad thing).  Therefore, be vigilant in building on your expertise in industry, for no telling how and when you may be able to parlay it into increasingly interesting and productive lines of work as you help lead the way in enabling all of us to learn and grow together.

 

Further reading:

Coding and autism: Learning the skills I need to start a tech career

https://www.autismspeaks.org/life-spectrum/coding-and-autism-learning-skills-i-need-start-tech-career

Autism and Computers

https://abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/autism-and-computers

Coding and autism: Learning the skills I need to start a tech career

https://www.codemonkey.com/blog/3-reasons-autistic-children-excel-at-computer-programming/

9 Programming Careers for Coding Connoisseurs

https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/blog/programming-careers-for-coding-connoisseurs

A New Education: Teaching Coding to Students with Autism

https://blog.stageslearning.com/blog/a-new-education-teaching-coding-to-students-with-autism

Computer Programmer Education Requirements and Career Information

https://study.com/computer_programmer.html