Making an impact with CAI Neurodiverse Solutions
What was your background prior to CAI?
Growing up, I moved around a lot. By the time I graduated from high school, I had changed schools 20 times. Although my grades were average or better, I was always bored in school. When I was 15, I moved out on my own to Rochester, NY, so that I could attend School Without Walls (SWW), a high school that gave students more control over their learning and a hand in developing curriculum. While a student at SWW, I not only worked on independent study projects, but taught classes as well. At SWW, I was able to discover how I best learn, which is one of the most important things that came from the experience. That’s a lesson that is not taught at a traditional high school and it’s made a big impact on who I’ve become as a person and a professional.
What did your career path look like?
Before joining CAI, I had quite a varied background. I started a number of businesses, some of which thrived, and others that didn't quite take off. The successful ones included working as a professional juggler and clown, running a farm, and managing a software business that I co-founded with a programmer from France. Additionally, I held various full-time jobs; initially, I worked as a Microfilm Librarian at a bank. Later, I transitioned to working in call centers, where I leveraged my growing computer skills and eventually managed a multi-client IT help desk. Alongside these roles, I also ran an independent software support business that was featured in a magazine for its innovative approach. Prior to finding CAI Neurodiverse Solutions, I was working as a COVID Contact Tracer and Case Investigator until the initiative wound down.
How did you find CAI Neurodiverse Solutions, and what is your current role?
I discovered CAI Neurodiverse Solutions through a chance conversation. Every day, I send birthday greetings to my friends and acquaintances online. During one of these exchanges, I mentioned that I was looking for work since my role as a COVID Contact Tracer and Case Investigator had ended. A friend asked if I identified as neurodivergent, and when I shared that I was diagnosed as "hyperactive" as a kid, he connected me with a member of CAI’s talent acquisition team. This connection led me to CAI Neurodiverse Solutions, and I was excited about the opportunity to work with an organization that understands the benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace. I completed the Talent Discovery Session (TDS), which felt like a collaborative, hands-on assessment rather than a traditional interview. I believe it gave CAI a better understanding of where I would fit in well. It also helped me refine my job search and self-training efforts as I continued to look for work.
The results of the TDS indicated that the type of job best suited for me at CAI only becomes available once or twice a year. I made it a point to stay in touch with my contact at CAI, keeping him updated on relevant certification courses I completed and following up on potential positions. I reached out to CAI between Thanksgiving and Christmas of 2023, and I learned that a position was opening, although it wouldn't start until the end of January 2024. That was perfectly fine with me, so I began the process of submitting my application to the hiring manager.
Currently, I work as a Business Analyst/Validator at a top 4 consulting firm through CAI. My primary responsibilities involve analyzing and validating data related to disaster relief efforts to ensure effective and appropriate distribution of resources, which feels like a combination of solving a mystery and a treasure hunt. I love the collaborative and supportive environment at my firm, where everyone thanks each other at the end of every meeting and is always ready to help. It's been a great fit for me, and I'm proud to contribute to the recovery of impacted communities through my work.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the sense of fulfillment and purpose I get from knowing that my work directly contributes to the recovery of communities devastated by hurricanes. It's incredibly rewarding to see how my efforts help municipalities get reimbursed for the expenses incurred during disaster recovery. I feel like I'm playing a crucial role in rebuilding lives, even if it's from behind a desk. Additionally, the supportive and collaborative environment at my firm is something I truly appreciate. The "can do" attitude, the constant expressions of gratitude, and the encouragement to ask questions and think critically make it a place where I can thrive and grow professionally.
“Keith's meticulous attention to detail establishes a high standard, eliminating any ambiguity and fostering seamless collaboration among team members. As a staunch supporter of his colleagues, he consistently shares knowledge and provides guidance, propelling the team to new heights of excellence. His rigorous validation activities instill confidence across projects, reinforcing reliability and excellence at every stage. Having Keith on the team is truly a joy, as his dedication and expertise continuously inspire, elevate the entire team, and a testament to CAI’s commitment to clients.”
Another aspect I love is the variety and challenge that comes with my role. Each project is like a new puzzle, requiring attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to see connections that others might miss. Whether it's refining years of documentation into a cohesive PDF or managing complex data sets, I enjoy the intellectual stimulation and the opportunity to leverage my diverse background and interests. It's a job that keeps me engaged and motivated every day.
I’ve never thought of my neurodiversity as something separate from me, it’s just part of who I am. I do believe that my experience and interests have allowed me to make connections and think in a way that others don’t, and I feel empowered and encouraged to lean into this in my current role.
