Inclusive Employment Pathways: Career Success Factors for Autistic Individuals in Software Engineering

TL;DR

This paper systematically reviews 30 studies to identify key success factors across education, training, work environment, and tools that facilitate the inclusion of autistic individuals in software engineering careers.

Contribution

It synthesizes existing knowledge into a comprehensive framework of 18 success factors, providing evidence-based recommendations for fostering inclusive SE workplaces.

Findings

Identified 18 success factors across four thematic categories.

Provided practical strategies for inclusive practices and accommodations.

Highlighted the importance of environment and tools in supporting autistic talent.

Abstract

Research has highlighted the valuable contributions of autistic individuals in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, particularly in areas such as software development, testing, and cybersecurity. Their strengths in information processing, attention to detail, innovative thinking, and commitment to high-quality outcomes in the ICT domain are well-documented. However, despite their potential, autistic individuals often face barriers in Software Engineering (SE) roles due to a lack of personalised tools, complex work environments, non-inclusive recruitment practices, limited co-worker support, challenging social dynamics and so on. Motivated by the ethical framework of the neurodiversity movement and the success of pioneering initiatives like the Dandelion program, corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the ICT sector has increasingly focused on autistic talent. This movement fundamentally reframes challenges not as individual deficits but as failures of environments designed for a neurotypical majority. Despite this progress, there is no synthesis of knowledge reporting the full pathway from software engineering education through to sustainable workplace inclusion. To address this, we conducted a Systematic Review of 30 studies and identified 18 success factors grouped into four thematic categories: (1) Software Engineering Education, (2) Career and Employment Training, (3) Work Environment, and (4) Tools and Assistive Technologies. Our findings offer evidence-based recommendations for educational institutions, employers, organisations, and tool developers to enhance the inclusion of autistic individuals in SE. These include strategies for inclusive meeting and collaboration practices, accessible and structured work environments, clear role and responsibility definitions, and the provision of tailored workplace accommodations.