Curtin University program helps connect young autistic people to cyber security industry
Curtin University program helps connect young autistic people to cyber security industry
Publish Date: 2026-06-27 20:11:00
Source Domain: www.abc.net.au
Software engineer Benjamynn Weber has always struggled whether to disclose his autism to potential employers.
“It’s always a question like, ‘Oh, should I tell them that I have autism?'” he said.
“I’m always aware of the stigma against people with autism.”
Ben Weber feels more confident in his industry after being a part of the initiative. (ABC News: Nicholas Martyr)
But it’s not something he has had to grapple with since he completed a program at Perth’s Curtin University aimed at preparing young autistic people for a career in one of Australia’s most critical industries.
The Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance (AASQA) program provides training and pathways for autistic people aged over 18 to pursue careers in a variety of tech industries such as robotics, automation, cyber security, data science and artificial intelligence.
The program helps people with autism find work in tech sectors. (ABC News: Nicholas Martyr)
Program founder Tele Tan says autistic people well-suited to cyber security jobs because they are systematic, logical thinkers.
“They like rules and cybersecurity software testing is a rule‑based process, and they definitely are very good at that at a cognitive level,” he said.
“In terms of technical skills, they are very curious about how things work and are very comfortable with a very structured environment. And software testing is one of them.”
Professor Tele Tan sees a lot of valuable qualities in the people who go through the program. (Supplied)
Internships and more
In addition to highlighting the strengths to its students to employers, the program helps participants build confidence in the workplace.
Graduates gain industry recognised-certification and students can pursue tertiary study if they wish.
