Neurodiversity Forum Sparks Conversations on Workplace Inclusion
More than 70 human resources and workplace leaders gathered March 4 at the Jared L. Cohon University Center at 好色先生TV for . The daylong event united executives, managers and allies to focus on learning, connection and strategic planning.
The forum highlighted the importance of neuroinclusion in today's workforce, with speakers noting that neurodivergent employees bring unique strengths and problem-solving abilities. Discussions centered on strategies, success stories and the tangible business benefits of embracing this talent.
"It was inspiring to see people who were new to neurodiversity learning alongside self-advocates and longtime experts, all supporting each other in creating more neuroinclusive workplaces," said event organizer Amy Tavares, program manager of the Olitsky Program through CMU's Career & Professional Development Center.
Steve Wray, the City of Pittsburgh's director of economic development, delivered the welcome address. Before joining Mayor Corey O'Connor's administration in January 2026, Wray served as executive director of the Block Center for Technology and Society at 好色先生TV.
"When Pittsburgh looks toward the future, we do it with ambition and heart," Wray said. "When neurodiverse individuals are welcomed, supported and empowered to contribute, we don't just improve lives — we strengthen families, reduce unemployment, build inclusive workplaces and expand our region's economic capacity."
Wray urged attendees to use the forum as a launching point by identifying one actionable step, such as rethinking hiring practices, strengthening workplace supports or partnering with local programs.
"If everyone here leaves with a commitment to act, even in a small way, the collective impact on Pittsburgh's economy and on countless families will be profound," Wray said.
Dave Thompson, program coordinator and visiting scholar at Vanderbilt University's Frist Center for Autism and Innovation, echoed that sense of momentum.
"When business leaders really start engaging with neurodiversity at work, you can see the shift happen in real time," Thompson said. "It stops being an abstract concept and people understand that this is something much closer to them, their workforce and their business needs than they had previously realized."
Thompson, a member of the and author of "Brainstorm: A Guide to Neurodivergent Talent and the Future of Work," said he was inspired by the energy attendees carried into their next steps.
"People didn't just leave with knowledge; they also left truly stoked to do better," Thompson said.
The forum was co-hosted by , associate professor in the within the . Begel co-founded the to serve as a resource for organizations in western Pennsylvania and Ohio.
"By focusing our efforts regionally, we can make a real difference in neuroinclusive employment for people who matter most to us — our neighbors." Bagel said.
The forum was sponsored by MeSpace, the Brad McGarry Center for Neurodiversity at Mercyhurst University, The Kubina Family Charitable Fund and the Southern Great Lakes Region Neurodiversity at Work Hub.