Aspiritech Academy
Aspiritech Academy offers cost-free career training programs for autistic and neurodivergent adults preparing for work in technology and digital fields.
Built by a nonprofit social enterprise focused on inclusive employment, Aspiritech Academy provides practical, hands-on training aligned with real workplace needs. Our programs are led by neurodivergent subject matter experts and equip cohorts with the knowledge and skills to launch new careers in tech and beyond.
Whether you are exploring potential career paths or looking to upskill your existing interests, Aspiritech Academy is here to support your next step.
What Is Aspiritech Academy?
Aspiritech Academy is a career training initiative created by Aspiritech, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to expand employment opportunities for autistic and neurodivergent adults. Founded in 2022, we have significantly expanded with the generous support of Mitsubishi Electric Foundation, HAAPE, additional partners and our donor community.
We believe access to training should never depend on an individual’s ability to pay, and that effective training must be intentionally designed with neurodivergent learners in mind from the very beginning.
The Aspiritech Academy difference:
- Cost-free career training
- Built by the largest, leading neurodiversity employer in the U.S.
- A supportive, flexible work environment designed to help neurodivergent individuals thrive
- Remote learning in a supportive, online environment
- Professional development and career readiness support
- Weekly team meetings, social discussion sessions and guest speakers from industry experts
Our Career Training Programs
Aspiritech Academy intentionally expands its training offerings to align with evolving workforce needs. We currently offer programs in two high-demand areas and are developing additional programs to meet emerging demand.
Current Pathways:
Quality Assurance (QA) Program
A 6-week course leading to International Software Testing Qualification Board (ISTQB) certification, Aspiritech’s QA Program teaches software testing processes, documentation, and defect management. Graduates are prepared to identify and resolve issues in software before release.
This pathway is a good fit for any neurodivergent learners interested in becoming a QA engineer, software tester or quality control specialist.
Cybersecurity Program
Aspiritech’s Cybersecurity Program provides foundational training in cybersecurity concepts, practices and tools. Participants explore core ideas in digital security and risk management while building skills aligned with a growing and evolving field.
This pathway helps learners prepare for roles as security analysts, SOC technicians or IT security specialists. Successful program graduates earn a CompTIA Security+ certificate. It is open to learners across the United States.
Cybersecurity Pre-Apprenticeship
(Illinois residents only)
Aspiritech’s Registered Cybersecurity Pre-Apprenticeship Program is a paid, hands-on training and work pathway for neurodivergent adults who are ready to move from foundational learning into hands-on cybersecurity practice.
The program begins with a structured, cost-free pre-apprenticeship focused on CompTIA Security+ fundamentals and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework, followed by a 12-month paid apprenticeship with Aspiritech or a partner organization. Our apprenticeship program is approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Participants gain on-the-job experience in professional environments while continuing to build technical and workplace skills. This program is designed to support a transition into entry-level cybersecurity roles through supervised, practical work and progressive responsibility.
Our training is in two parts. The first 1,000 hours leads to the foundational CompTIA Security+ certification and the next 1,000 is focused training on NIST standards to be ready for the workplace roles in compliance.
The Cybersecurity Apprenticeship is currently open to Illinois residents only.
Upcoming Pathways:
We are actively developing additional training programs aligned with emerging career pathways, including:
- Accessibility Testing
- Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) Certification
- Entrepreneurship
- HR Specialist
- IT Foundations
How to Apply to Aspiritech Academy
Our enrollment process is designed to be as effortless as possible for neurodivergent learners and their support community. Here is what you can expect:
Step 1: Complete Intake Form
This form is used to collect general information such as your name, phone, email address, level of education and resume (if you have one).
Once completed, submit the form.
Note: If you choose more than one program, you will need to complete a separate application for each program.
Step 2: Application Review
Our team will review your application to determine program fit and cohort availability.
Step 3: Contact & Introductions
After we review your application and program interest, a program instructor will contact you within one week. They will then schedule a time to meet, discuss the program and answer any questions you may have.
Step 4: Enrollment & Preparation
If accepted into Aspiritech Academy, you will be notified and will receive guidance on enrollment and the next steps of our process.
Apply to Aspiritech Academy
Aspiritech Academy offers cost-free, autism-centered career training for neurodivergent adults in high-demand technology fields.
If you are ready to explore your next step, you can begin the application process now.
Apply to Aspiritech Academy
Aspiritech Academy offers cost-free, autism-centered career training for neurodivergent adults in high-demand technology fields.
If you are ready to explore your next step, you can begin the application process now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aspiritech Academy
Aspiritech Academy is designed for autistic and neurodivergent adults who are interested in building skills and exploring careers in technology and additional fields.
Yes. All Aspiritech Academy training programs are cost-free for participants.
Some programs may have prerequisites, but many are designed for beginners with a general interest in the subject matter. Each program will clearly explain what is required.
No training program can guarantee employment. However, Aspiritech Academy programs are designed to meet industry standards and focus on real-world, in-demand skills. Participants receive structured training, professional support and exposure to clear pathways toward meaningful employment.
Aspiritech’s mission is centered on preparing and supporting neurodivergent adults for successful employment outcomes.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to apply to Aspiritech Academy. We recognize self-diagnosis of neurodivergence as valid.
Aspiritech Academy is open to all neurodivergent adults living in the United States. Some of our programs’ cohorts may be limited to participants in specific states through local partnerships.
Our Registered Cybersecurity Pre-Apprenticeship Program is currently limited to Illinois residents only.
Yes, you are welcome to apply to all of the programs that suit your interests and career goals. You will need to complete a separate application for each program.
Participants are encouraged to have their own computer or laptop to take part in Aspiritech Academy. However, we will do our best to ensure everyone can participate.
Please note in your application if not having a laptop or WiFi is a barrier to your participation.
Yes, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate.
No, but you must have a GED or high school diploma to apply.
Still Considering Your Options?
Not sure yet if Aspiritech Academy is the right fit for your career goals?
Send us an email or fill out our contact form. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you might have and talk through your options.
We’re Ready to Help!
Why Choose the Aspiritech Team ?
- 15+ years in software testing
- ISTQB-certified testing professionals
- Third-party assessed and proven security of entrusted customer information
- A full-time team of 100+ testing engineers
- Industry-specific expertise across multiple domains by QA testers who are deeply passionate about user experience
Graduate Testimonial
"I liked learning about the field of quality assurance work. I didn't know about all this beforehand, so I'm glad I took it. I learned I have good attention to detail that would be a valuable asset at QA work. It was so good I almost would want to share them with my friends!"