U Can Employ™ (UCE) is your guide to becoming an autism inclusive employer. By fostering an autism inclusive workplace, UCE aims to change the employment landscape for individuals with autism nationwide by initiating internal transformations within businesses.
We are powered by Els for Autism®, a global leader in providing customized, transdisciplinary programs for individuals across the autism spectrum. With over a decade of experience, the organization supports children, youth, and adults through tailored, research-informed services. Founded by Ernie and Liezl Els and Marvin R. Shanken - inspired by the Els’ son, Ben - Els for Autism® now serves more than 300 clients in Jupiter, Florida, and has reached over 15,000 individuals worldwide.
Why We Are Here
U Can Employ was founded to address a painful truth: autistic adults are too often denied fair access to employment—not because they lack ability, but because inclusive systems aren't in place.
The idea for UCE began when a family watched their autistic son, a loyal employee with seven years of experience at a national retailer, be denied even an interview after relocating to a new city. Despite a strong reference and proven work ethic, he was dismissed—an outcome unlikely for a neurotypical candidate. That experience made it clear: inclusion can’t depend on the discretion of one manager. It must be built into the fabric of a business.
Our goal is to help employers create lasting, systemic change so that autistic individuals are given the fair, consistent opportunities they deserve. We offer expert guidance, training, and tools to ensure that inclusion is not just a value, but a practice.
