As a neurodivergent individual, Cody Hart found working at Enabled Intelligence in Falls Church, Virginia to be a refreshing change from his previous job at a grocery store deli. At his current workplace, he feels valued and appreciated by his colleagues, something that was not always the case when he was younger and his condition was not well understood.
Enabled Intelligence is an AI technology company that provides data solutions for the U.S. defense and intelligence community. In an effort to promote diversity and inclusion in their workforce, the company has announced plans to recruit 100 AI data annotators who are neurodiverse. CEO Peter Kant explained that the work requires skills such as detail orientation, hyper-focus, pattern recognition, puzzle-solving, and analytical skills – all of which many neurodiverse individuals excel in.
Melwood, a nonprofit organization that provides jobs and opportunities for people with disabilities, is partnering with Enabled Intelligence to prepare workers through a 14-week boot camp program. Cody Hart, who is a graduate of the Melwood program, emphasized the importance of gaining IT certifications, developing soft skills for working in a professional environment, and having access to rewarding career opportunities with growth potential.
Recently, three Virginia Democrats – Congressman Don Beyer, Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner – visited Enabled Intelligence to show their support for Melwood’s Neurodivergent Workforce Initiative. This initiative received $307,000 in federal funding to continue its mission of creating job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Cody Hart expressed his gratitude for all those who have supported him on his journey to his current job and highlighted the importance of programs like this for people like him.