S3D Hosts Conference on Cognitive Diversity at Work

Carnegie Mellon's Software and Societal Systems Department is currently co-hosting the 7th Annual Neurodiversity at Work Research Conference, bringing together researchers, industry professionals, and diverse stakeholders to explore and support how different cognitive styles contribute to innovation in the workplace.

The event, running May 19-21 on CMU's campus, reflects S3D's ongoing commitment to research that addresses real-world challenges at the intersection of technology and human experience.

"This conference focuses on how diverse thinking styles can strengthen innovation and problem-solving," says Professor Andrew Begel, who joined S3D in 2022 and serves as conference co-chair. "It's fundamentally about developing evidence-based approaches that help everyone contribute their unique talents."

Research with Practical Applications

Begel's work through CMU's VariAbility Lab examines how technology can improve workplace communication and collaboration between individuals with different cognitive styles and information processing approaches.

The lab has developed audio/video chat tools to improve workplace communication and collaboration, video games that train non-autistic workers to be allies to their autistic colleagues, and programming education platforms that remove barriers faced by neurodivergent students, helping them better prepare to enter the technical workforce. All of these projects address practical challenges that many individuals and organizations face in today's complex work environments.

"Companies are increasingly recognizing that cognitive diversity can be a significant competitive advantage," Begel notes. "Our research helps develop the tools and approaches that make this possible, which is ultimately about strengthening America's technology workforce."

Building Skills and Career Pathways

The conference highlights work that creates stronger career pathways in technology fields, including Begel's NSF-funded PAS4AI Workforce project, which helps autistic community college students develop valuable AI and teamwork skills while connecting them with relevant internship opportunities across the country.

"Projects like these are about preparing talented individuals for success in America's technology companies," Begel explains. "We're focusing on helping students develop the technical, social, and professional skills that employers value."

This direct connection between research, education, and industry needs exemplifies S3D's approach to creating meaningful impact beyond theoretical research.

Industry Engagement and Workforce Development

Major technology companies have demonstrated growing interest in tapping into diverse talent pipelines to address critical workforce shortages in technical fields.

Begel has established the Southern Great Lakes Region Neurodiversity at Work Hub, which connects employers with talent across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan, strengthening the regional technology ecosystem. "Working in the local region is the best way to scale our efforts so that they help the most people gain employment," asserts Begel.

"This conference brings together major stakeholders to advance research and practice in ways that will ultimately strengthen American competitiveness," says Nicolas Christin, S3D Department Head. "It's about developing approaches that help organizations identify and nurture talent effectively."

Conference Focus

The event includes research presentations on topics such as:

• Evidence-based hiring and professional development practices
• Technology-based tools that enhance workplace communication
• Educational approaches that prepare neurodivergent students for technology careers
• Strengths-based management frameworks that maximize individual contributions

"By bringing together perspectives from computer science, psychology, and organizational behavior, we can develop better approaches to talent development and management," Begel says. "That's ultimately good for individuals, organizations, and our nation's technology leadership."

In addition to the conference, Begel co-hosted a Neurodivergent Researcher workshop to build community, support career development, and empower academics working on neurodiversity and employment research. This year's workshop focused on entrepreneurial aspirations and skills development. Begel says, "some people work well as part of an organization. Others do better working as their own boss. We recognize and support these differences even within our own researcher community."

Ongoing Impact

The Neurodiversity at Work Research Conference is taking place at Carnegie Mellon University from May 19-21, 2025. For program details and information about outcomes from the event, visit https://ndatworkresearch.org.