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How TTOs Can Lead the Way on Inclusion and Neurodiverse Innovation with Andy Williamson
Manage episode 484404601 series 3667434
Building inclusive workplaces is not just good ethics, it is a major catalyst for innovation, creativity, and long term success. In this episode we take a closer look at how tech transfer offices can harness the untapped potential of neurodivergent talent and why doing so could transform not just individual careers but entire organizations.
My guest is Andy Williamson, founder of Welcome Brain Consulting a UK-based consultancy pioneering neurodiversity inclusion in workplaces worldwide. Andy has spent over a decade helping organizations rethink how they hire, train, and support neurodivergent individuals from private companies to public institutions. His work includes developing the UK Industry Standard Neurodiversity in Events Checklist and advising on strategies that make workplaces more welcoming and effective for all kinds of thinkers.
Andy shares how TTOs can create hiring practices that break down barriers, design workspaces that support focus and creativity, and foster cultures where every mind is valued. He explains why adapting communication styles, offering small workplace adjustments, and tracking the right metrics can make a huge difference, and why the business case for neuro inclusion is just as strong as the moral one. This is a thoughtful and practical conversation for anyone serious about building innovation ecosystems leaving no talent behind.
In This Episode:
[02:07] Andy shares why he founded Welcome Brain and some services they provide.
[02:42] Andy talks about getting incredible results when tailoring learning for neurodivergent young people.
[03:52] They help organizations support neurodiverse individuals within that organization.
[04:25] They are currently working with the government with recruitment and hiring.
[05:10] As many children are getting diagnosed, so are their parents. There are many neurodivergent adults.
[07:37] Neurodiversity means thinking differently. This is what has made America great.
[08:53] TTOs are hubs for translating research into real world impact. There are certain skills inherent in neurodivergent people that can be really helpful with systems thinking and seeing things that others miss.
[10:23] Innovation is thinking differently. That's what neurodivergent people do. Incredible ideas and tremendous creativity.
[11:25] Neurodiverse teams can be more productive. Andy talks about roles that neurodivergent people would excel at.
[13:30] We talk about hiring and the recruitment process for neurodivergent people. The job description language, the screening process, and the interview process can filter out neurodivergent people.
[15:59] Interview skills aren't the same as the skills required for the job.
[16:24] Send interview questions in advance so people can prepare.
[18:10] Being neuro inclusive will make you more money. Retention rates are also higher.
[21:14] Office space and redesigning workspaces to increase focus. Things that can be done include creating acoustics around each zone.
[23:41] Fostering psychological safety for neurodivergent individuals to share their needs and avoid stigma. Seeing other neurodivergent people creates a sense of safety.
[27:28] Modeling inclusive behavior to shift team culture.
[28:17] Managers need to be involved and communication is key
[30:03] We learn about Welcome Brain's Certification Program. The initiatives need to be evaluated and measured.
[33:12] We discuss the Neurodiversity In Events Checklist.
[38:25] What TTOs should do to start creating neurodivergent inclusive environments.
Resources:
Welcome Brain Neurodiversity Consulting
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