The Uniquely Abled Academy was created by the Uniquely Abled Project to connect the unique strengths and abilities of individuals with autism and neurodiversity with careers in industries that need skilled employees.
The Academy combines:
The goal goes beyond completing a training program. We want participants to develop the skills, confidence, and employer connections necessary to transition into successful manufacturing careers.
Modern manufacturing offers careers for individuals who enjoy working with technology, solving problems, following processes, creating tangible products, and paying attention to detail.
Computer Numeric Control, or CNC machining is an especially important occupation within advanced manufacturing. CNC professionals use sophisticated equipment to transform raw materials into precision components used in products we depend on every day.
Graduates of Uniquely Abled Academies may be prepared for entry-level positions such as:
The Uniquely Abled Academy model specifically combines technical training with employer engagement and employment preparation so participants are working toward a career—not simply completing a class.
BotsIQ’s Uniquely Abled Academy is designed for individuals with autism and neurodiversity who are interested in developing the skills needed for entry-level employment in manufacturing.
Applicants should generally:
Previous manufacturing or machining experience is not required.
Applicants will participate in a selection process to help determine whether the Academy and CNC machining are a good fit for their interests, abilities, and career goals.
Complete the BotsIQ Uniquely Abled Academy application. The application helps our team learn more about your interests, goals, availability, and readiness for the training program.
After applications are reviewed, selected applicants will be contacted with information about the next step in the process.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Cohorts will begin in early October and February each year.
Applicants moving forward in the selection process must successfully complete a background screening before beginning training at the BotsIQ Training & Education Center.
Because Academy participants will train in a facility that is also regularly used by minors, this screening is required as part of BotsIQ’s commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment for everyone.
Completion of the background screening is required before an applicant can participate in Academy training at the BotsIQ TEC.
Please note: A prior conviction does not result in automatic disqualification. Any information identified through the screening process will be reviewed in relation to the safety requirements of the program and training environment.
BotsIQ Training & Education Center
100 S. Jackson Avenue, 2nd Floor
Pittsburgh, PA 15202
Located on the Allegheny Suburban Campus in Bellevue, the BotsIQ Training & Education Center provides participants with a hands-on environment for learning advanced manufacturing skills.
First Cohort: Starts October 6th
Class meets Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from October 6th through January 14th from 9:00AM to 3:30PM.
No class will be held on Thursday, November 26th, Thursday, December 24th, and Tuesday, December 29th through Thursday, December 31st.
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply or submit an interest form now so BotsIQ can provide information about upcoming information sessions, the application process, and Academy dates.
Next Cohort Anticipated Start Date: Tuesday, February 2, 2027
No. Previous CNC, machining, or manufacturing experience is not required. The Academy is designed to teach participants the foundational skills needed to begin a career in CNC machining.
A significant amount of the Academy is technical training, but participants will also receive job-readiness preparation. Employment preparation is an important component of the Uniquely Abled Academy model.
No employment can be guaranteed. However, BotsIQ will work with participants and regional manufacturers to create opportunities for graduates to connect with employers and pursue appropriate manufacturing positions.
Yes. BotsIQ is committed to providing an accessible training environment. Applicants may identify reasonable accommodations or supports they need to participate in the application process or Academy.
Participants are responsible for reliable transportation to and from the Academy.
BotsIQ Academies will begin in October and February each year.
Families, educators, Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation representatives, supports coordinators, job coaches, autism service organizations, and other community partners can play an important role in helping potential participants explore the Academy.
BotsIQ will offer several manufacturing tours during the cohort that will include an invitation to participants’ supporters.
Manufacturers can support the Academy by:
Becoming an employer partner gives your company an opportunity to connect with a new source of motivated manufacturing talent while helping create a more inclusive regional workforce.
If your company is interested in getting involved, please contact [email protected].
