NeuroPIPES

Program Overview:

The NeuroPIPES (Neurodiversity Pipelines In bioPharmaceutical Employment through Supports) program aims to:

• Create a pipeline of technically qualified autistic candidates equipped for biomanufacturing careers.
• Offer clear pathways to meaningful employment for autistic adults

NeuroPIPES participants will receive training in both soft and hard skills needed for success in biomanufacturing careers.

Soft Skills Training:

• Participants will first receive soft skills training through UCLA’s Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS^®) Clinic.
• NeuroPIPES will use the PEERS^® for Careers program, a peer-reviewed behavioral intervention to equip autistic individuals with social skills to be successful in a professional work environment.
• Participants will learn how to disclose their diagnosis to their employer, improve professional communication (e.g., interviewing), and develop other relevant soft skills.

Hard Skills Training: 

• Following the soft skills training, participants will engage in hard skills training at the National Center for Therapeutics Manufacturing (NCTM).
• Training lasts two weeks and includes hands-on experience.
• This training includes cleanroom gowning procedures, documentation practices, and a high-level overview of upstream and downstream processing, as well as quality control (QC) using both single-use and stainless steel equipment in a manufacturing environment.

Upon the completion of the soft and hard skills training programs, participants will be guaranteed interviews or internships with our corporate partners.

Employer Training:

Simultaneously, employers will receive training from project partners, Link Consulting and Rangam. This training will:

• Identify support needs of autistic employees.
• Address skill gaps among hiring managers and supervisors.
• Prepare employers to work effectively with autistic candidates when they begin interviewing for positions.

These employer-facing activities are designed to create inclusive environments and support the long-term retention of autistic employees.