ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the periods of transition that lead up to and shape the early-career planning decisions made by young autistic women for their futures. It deals with a personal reflection by one of the authors on her experiences as a young autistic woman transitioning through school into the world of work. The chapter explores research findings around post-secondary transition and employment. It shows that the need for employers to recognize the value that autistic employees can bring to their workforce, and identifies the barriers to employment that thwart the successful inclusion of autistic women within the workforce. The chapter considers two evidence-based approaches that might smooth the transition experiences of autistic girls emerging into adulthood, and enable the professionals working with them to offer improved support towards realizing their aspirations. Entering the employment field from university can also mean a rapid readjustment to a 9–5 day having had minimal hours of timetabled lectures on undergraduate programmes.
