Autism in the workplace

Oct 02, 2015

Mike Mayes

Mike Mayes, who was diagnosed with autism at 18 months, graduated from Mitchell College in 2013. Mike has worked as a classroom mentor and a summer youth leader. Mike was bullied during high school, but with courage and determination he overcame the effects of the bullying. As a result, he is deeply committed to being accepted for who he is—a person with autism—and to helping others advocate for themselves. Mike has been a motivational speaker for over six years. He speaks on such topics as growing up with autism, bullying, transitions, and the impact of special education laws on people on the spectrum. His goal as a speaker is to give parents hope, and to encourage professionals to have high expectations for their students who are on the autism spectrum. Mike has been a keynote speaker for Autism Speaks, for the Flutie Foundation, and for Mass Advocates for Children. Mike has demonstrated how hard work, commitment and perseverance can lead to success. He is an inspiration to anyone who has an Autism Spectrum condition.