The Autism Self-Advocacy Center for Equity and Neurodiversity in Engineering (A-SCENE) aims to create a model by which Schools of Engineering can deploy a comprehensive and fully interconnected system of programs and supports to ensure that neurodivergent students can access and succeed in engineering majors and careers 鈥� from the undergraduate experience, to graduate training and professional development, to meaningful engagement in the STEM workforce.
WHY THIS MATTERS
-
Workforce Shortages:
Engineering fields continue to face critical workforce shortages.
A clearer path into engineering for neurodivergent students is necessary. A-SCENE creates a connected system that helps neurodivergent students enter engineering programs with confidence and get the support they need from day one through graduation.
-
Neurodivergent Strengths:
Neurodivergent individuals bring strengths valuable to engineering and innovation.
A-SCENE supports neurodivergent students access their potential and navigate academic systems, from a social-strengths perspective. We build and support neuroinclusive teaching ad strengths-based engineering education.
-
Barriers to Access:
Many students still encounter unnecessary friction in academic and workplace systems.
A-SCENE connects students directly with employers via internships and co-ops, hands on projects, and early career opportunities to match their interests. We also train leadership development for neurodivergent engineers.
PROJECT OUTCOMES
-
The Neurodiversity in Engineering Playbook:
With input from all partner universities, we are assembling a national playbook that any school of engineering can use to launch or strengthen neuroinclusive programs.
-
A Replicable Model:
A-SCENE develops practical, scalable models universities and employers can actually implement.聽Once the system is tested and refined, it will be prepared for broader use by additional engineering schools that want to support neurodiverse talent in a real and sustainable way.
-
Real Partnerships:
Our work connects students with engineering companies through mentoring, hands on projects, internships, and early career opportunities that match their strengths and interests.
-
Education, Mentorship, Experiential Learning, and Employment:
We are developing guides, training, and ready to use resources that help faculty, advisors, and student support teams create learning environments where neurodiverse students can succeed.
Participating Institutions
Arizona State University --聽
Northeastern University --聽
Co-op an internship pathways connecting students with employers.
University of Connecticut --聽
Neuroinclusive teaching and strengths-based engineering education.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign --聽
University of Missouri --聽
Helping neurodivergent engineering students navigate academic systems, expectations, & transitions.
91吃瓜网 --聽
Inclusive graduate training and leadership development for neurodivergent engineers.