How DXC is harnessing an under-utilised market to fill the IT skills gap

“If we are to achieve a richer culture, we must weave one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.” – Margaret Meade

Diversity, inclusion and equality (DEI) is now a key focus for organisations, but in spite of this, research from the Institute of Leadership & Management found that the workplace is not a happy place for many neurodivergent people; with data indicating they have far worse experiences in the workplace than their neurotypical colleagues believe they do. Additionally, half of all leaders and managers that responded reported they would not employ someone who had one or more neurodivergent conditions.¹

However, research suggests 50% of neurodiverse individuals have above average to very high intelligence, yet 80% of people with autism for example, are unemployed or underemployed. Recognising there needed to be a way to harness these skills, DXC Technology, an IT services company spanning 70+ countries across the globe, got to work.

They created the DXC Dandelion Program, a multi award-winning program connecting neurodiverse people with meaningful employment, simultaneously helping workplaces fill IT skills gaps.

The DXC Dandelion Program offers a practical solution to a complex situation

Neurodiverse people, such as those on the autism spectrum, or who have dyslexia or ADHD, often have an extraordinary capacity for visual thinking, accuracy and attention to detail. These can be invaluable skills in the IT industry, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity or data analytics – two critical areas in today’s technological landscape.

Backed by global research and designed in collaboration with neurodiverse people, the DXC Dandelion Program provides a unique selection and recruitment process, work experience programs, organisational change programs (including workplace awareness training), tailored employment programs and on-site, holistic support frameworks.

While the ethical and social benefits are clear, there are financial benefits for both sides too. The DXC Dandelion Program embraces, supports and expands the skills of neurodiverse people to help them secure long-term, fulfilling IT careers. As a result, DXC’s customers and partners gain access to highly skilled team members with strong technical capability, to meet their IT needs.

When impact is the intent

If you’ve ever felt that sense of belonging at work, you’ll understand the impact of the DXC Dandelion Program – and the potential for even more impact in the future.

One program participant notes “One of the biggest things about being in the DXC Dandelion Program is that it helps me find a work environment that is specifically designed for me to fit into.”

Another adds that their confidence levels have boosted since starting in the program.

“Our focus is to easily integrate the people into our workplace and provide them with the right support structure that allows them to thrive.” – Seelan Nayagam, President, Asia Pacific, DXC Technology

A growth area

Established in 2014, over the last seven years the DXC Dandelion Program has successfully established 13 teams, and already assisted more than 200 neurodiverse people in the private and public sectors in roles such as software testing, cyber security, data analytics, automation and monitoring, along with over 25 support staff including autism consultants, mental health professionals and technical leads.

In the A/NZ region, DXC’s related initiatives include Genius Armoury and the Autism@Work Pilot Program. Co-developed with local organisations and universities, Genius Armoury is an online learning environment aimed at attracting and training previously untapped cybersecurity talent from Australia’s autistic community and connecting them with education and career opportunities. The Autism@Work Pilot Program was designed in partnership with the Australian Federal Government Department of Social Services (DSS), and is focused on assisting autistic people along their journey to finding sustainable employment through the DSS Disability Employment Services (DES) program.

Together, DXC, their employees and their customers are creating a more diverse and socially responsible IT industry – which can only be a good thing.

Looking to learn more about this story and how embracing accessibility can drive value for your business? Join our Partner for Purpose Accessibility webinar.

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¹ Source: Workplace Neurodiversity: The Power Of Difference, 2020,Institute of Leadership & Management https://www.institutelm.com/resourceLibrary/workplace-neurodiversity-the-power-of-difference.html