SPECIAL EDITION: FutureTalk with Jonathan Chase

Thinking Diversity: Understanding Autism from the Inside *

Studies are finding that the apparent correlation between autism diagnoses and the tech sector are not unfounded … research is showing that engineers, computer programers and people with autism are exceptionally good at 'systematizing,' a skill for creating and analyzing how systems work.

Jonathan Chase is an autistic self-advocate who travels the country as a speaker to help others better understand autism spectrum disorder. He shares personal stories, accommodation recommendations, and ways to support not just people on the autism spectrum but anyone who sees things differently. Topics will include social communication, sensory processing disorders, and a demonstration of visual thinking with a live musical performance.

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Jonathan began working in the autism field in 2008, when I joined the Autism Society of Oregon's board of directors, a position which I still hold today. Since then, my work as expanded into speaking, advocacy, and mentoring young adults on the spectrum, as well as partnerships with many families, professionals and organizations.

Details

*note: no need to RSVP via Eventbrite

• Doors will open at 5:30 for a 30-minute networking happy half-hour! The food, beer and drinks are provided by Bellagios and New Relic.

• The presentation will begin right at 6p.

• NOTE: after the event, everyone is invited to continue networking at a special happy hour opportunity, one story up at Portland City Grill.

› FutureTalks is brought to you by New Relic (http://www.newrelic.com/) in collaboration with TAO (http://www.techoregon.org/).