ArcBest (NASDAQ:ARCB) partnered with Integrate Autism Employment Advisors, a non-profit that works with companies to identify, recruit and retain individuals on the autism spectrum.
The partnership is to develop a neuroinclusive workforce and continue finding the best talent with unique skillsets. Arcbest is Integrate’s first hiring partner in the logistics industry. The partnership shows the company’s commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
“Our people are at the heart of our success, and we care about attracting, hiring and retaining the right people for the right jobs — including those who are on the autism spectrum. Our partnership with Integrate is a step in the right direction to continue learning about workplace neurodiversity so that we can create a more inclusive working environment where all individuals can succeed. We hope our efforts will encourage others in the industry to do the same,” said Erin Gattis, ArcBest’s chief human resources officer.
Arcbest is a multi billion dollar logistics company. It was founded in 1923 and now sports over 15,000 employees across 250 job sites. The company uses shipping and logistics solutions to resolve its customers’ issues. In contrast, Integrate has been around for a decade, helping employees on the spectrum land employment. Some of the services Integrate offers include assessment, training and education. Also, providing on-boarding support to match the right client with the right worker in the right environment.
Read more: Healthcare application released to untangle hospital supply chain snarls
Read more: Interface goes all in on ESG in 2022
Integrate and the autism spectrum
The stats bear out. Approximately 35 per cent of people on the spectrum go to college. Furthermore, the current under and unemployment rate for this population is between 75 and 85 per cent, according to Integrate. Arcbest intends to hire five employees through Integrate’s program in 2023. The other purpose for the partnership is to review and improve its job descriptions and hiring processes.
“When it comes to the workplace, job descriptions are often the first barrier to entry. For example, entry-level descriptions that call for excellent oral and communication skills or leadership potential often put off potential applicants who may struggle with interpersonal skills. Many on the spectrum often take things literally so that if they don’t have one skill out of 10 listed in a job post, they won’t apply, thinking themselves unqualified. Integrate works with employers to craft neuroinclusive job descriptions so qualified neurodivergent candidates will not self-select out of applying,” said Tracy Powell-Rudy, vice president of corporate engagement at Integrate.
ArcBest joins other corporations like JP Morgan Chase & Co., SAP, Ernst & Young and Microsoft in searching for professionals with autism to hire.
