{"id":5296,"date":"2025-08-05T12:24:13","date_gmt":"2025-08-05T12:24:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/?p=5296"},"modified":"2025-08-20T12:27:45","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T12:27:45","slug":"empowering-neurodiverse-talent-in-stem-why-businesses-cant-afford-to-miss-this-opportunity","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/empowering-neurodiverse-talent-in-stem-why-businesses-cant-afford-to-miss-this-opportunity\/","title":{"rendered":"Empowering Neurodiverse Talent in STEM: Why Businesses Can\u2019t Afford to Miss This Opportunity"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-1024x630.jpg\" alt=\"Hiring Neurodiverse Talent in STEM: How Bergen Logistics Is Leading the Way\" class=\"wp-image-5298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-1024x630.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-768x472.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-1536x945.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way-1568x964.jpg 1568w, https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Hiring-Neurodiverse-Talent-in-STEM-How-Bergen-Logistics-Is-Leading-the-Way.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hiring Neurodiverse Talent in STEM: How Bergen Logistics Is Leading the Way<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For companies in today\u2019s fast-evolving economy, talent is the single most important competitive advantage. But here\u2019s the challenge: some of the brightest minds are being overlooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to non-profit <strong>Spectrum Works<\/strong>, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face staggering unemployment rates \u2014 nearly <strong>85%<\/strong> \u2014 despite having skills, education, and the drive to excel. This isn\u2019t just a social issue; it\u2019s a massive missed opportunity for employers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, new legislation in New Jersey aims to change that, and <strong>Bergen Logistics<\/strong> is already showing what success looks like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Challenge: High Potential, Low Employment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Talent pipelines in STEM are under pressure. The demand for IT, data, and engineering skills is growing, yet companies often struggle to find qualified candidates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, thousands of neurodiverse individuals \u2014 including people with autism \u2014 graduate every year with the very skills companies need, but face systemic barriers to employment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Misconceptions about their abilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of workplace accommodations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limited opportunities to gain real-world experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The result? Highly capable individuals are underutilized, and businesses lose out on the innovation and dedication they could bring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Legislative Push: Incentives to Hire Neurodiverse Talent<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Jersey Senator Andrew Zwicker has introduced a package of bills designed to close this gap. The centerpiece: <strong>tax incentives for companies hiring neurodiverse individuals into STEM roles<\/strong> \u2014 including IT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key highlights of the proposed legislation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tax credits for businesses employing neurodiverse talent in STEM fields<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Funding for county colleges to create specialized programs supporting neurodiverse students<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support for hands-on training opportunities to prepare candidates for in-demand roles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As Senator Zwicker puts it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s just good common sense. The return on investment is significant. This is not just the right thing to do \u2014 it\u2019s also a smart business decision.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bergen Logistics: Turning Potential into Performance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While lawmakers work on policy, <strong>Bergen Logistics<\/strong> is already making it happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In partnership with <strong>Spectrum Works<\/strong>, Bergen hosted <strong>Eric<\/strong>, a master\u2019s student with a passion for IT, for a six-week internship last summer. Starting at the IT help desk, Eric quickly progressed to working in the <strong>cloud computing environment<\/strong> \u2014 gaining the technical and professional skills that will fuel his career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eric\u2019s takeaway?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI learned technical skills, but also how to advocate for myself and work effectively as part of a team.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why This Works: The Bergen Approach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bergen Logistics\u2019 model is built on the belief that diversity drives innovation and business growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Marjorie Ramos<\/strong>, Chief People Officer at Bergen Logistics, sums it up perfectly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWith these interns, it\u2019s not just about showing they\u2019re welcome in the workplace \u2014 it\u2019s about proving there\u2019s a legitimate place for them. They\u2019re making real contributions.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bergen focuses on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Real work, real impact<\/strong> \u2013 Interns contribute to critical business operations, from IT troubleshooting to cloud systems integration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mentorship and skills development<\/strong> \u2013 Providing guidance and training to help talent thrive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inclusive culture<\/strong> \u2013 Ensuring everyone has the opportunity to contribute to productivity, revenue, and innovation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Business Benefits: Why Hiring Neurodiverse Talent Makes Sense<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Employers partnering with 3PL leaders like <a href=\"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Bergen Logistics\">Bergen Logistics<\/a> aren\u2019t just doing good \u2014 they\u2019re building better businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s why:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Untapped talent pool<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Neurodiverse individuals often have exceptional skills in pattern recognition, problem-solving, and focus \u2014 highly valuable in STEM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Increased innovation<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Diverse teams bring unique perspectives that drive creative solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Reduced turnover<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> When given the right support, neurodiverse employees are often highly loyal and engaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Positive brand impact<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Demonstrating a commitment to diversity can enhance employer branding and customer loyalty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Role of Technology: From CloudX Systems to IT Innovation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As operations grow more complex, technology is critical to success. Bergen Logistics\u2019 IT team \u2014 supported by platforms like <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloudxsystems.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"CloudX Systems\">CloudX Systems<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 ensures seamless order fulfillment, real-time inventory tracking, and secure data management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Integrating neurodiverse talent into these tech-driven environments isn\u2019t just possible \u2014 it\u2019s a strategic advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eric\u2019s time in Bergen\u2019s <strong>cloud computing environment<\/strong> shows that with the right onboarding and support, neurodiverse professionals can thrive in even the most advanced technology ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Spectrum Works: Bridging the Gap<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.spectrumworks.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Spectrum Works\">Spectrum Works<\/a> is a New Jersey-based non-profit focused on creating sustainable employment opportunities for people with autism. By partnering with companies like Bergen Logistics, they:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify and prepare candidates for industry-specific roles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide training and job coaching<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Help employers build inclusive workplaces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The Bergen-Spectrum model is a <strong>blueprint for success<\/strong> \u2014 and exactly what the new legislation aims to scale statewide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Education\u2019s Role: Preparing the Next Generation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The legislation also invests in education, with <strong>over $1 million earmarked for county colleges<\/strong> to build programs supporting neurodiverse students in STEM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>College representatives emphasize that funding will expand programs in <strong>culinary arts, computer skills, and iSTEM<\/strong>, giving more students access to career-relevant training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From Pilot to Policy: Scaling Impact<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Bergen Logistics\u2013Spectrum Works internship wasn\u2019t a one-off. It\u2019s part of a broader shift toward seeing neurodiverse individuals as valuable contributors, not just as part of diversity initiatives, but as <strong>critical members of high-performing teams<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Eric, the experience opened doors \u2014 and his dream job is clear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI want to become a data analyst or a cybersecurity specialist in a company like Bergen Logistics, where I can put my skills to good use.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Action Steps for Employers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a business leader in STEM or logistics, here\u2019s how to start:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Partner with organizations like Spectrum Works<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> They\u2019ll connect you with qualified candidates and provide support for onboarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Evaluate roles for neurodiverse suitability<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> STEM roles often align well with neurodiverse strengths in analysis, precision, and problem-solving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Create an inclusive onboarding process<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Clear instructions, mentorship, and structured feedback help employees succeed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Leverage incentives<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Stay informed about tax credits and grants to support neurodiverse hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Measure impact<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Track retention rates, productivity gains, and employee engagement to quantify the business value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bergen Logistics\u2019 Commitment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As a global leader in third-party logistics, Bergen Logistics understands that <strong>people are at the core of operational excellence<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Marjorie Ramos<\/strong> makes it clear:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAnyone who has the opportunity to contribute to our productivity, our revenue stream, our innovation, is welcome to work here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That commitment to inclusion isn\u2019t just good ethics \u2014 it\u2019s good business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If Senator Zwicker\u2019s bills pass, more companies will have a financial incentive to do what Bergen Logistics and Spectrum Works are already proving: hiring neurodiverse talent in STEM is a <strong>win-win<\/strong> for individuals, businesses, and the broader economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At Bergen, the lesson is simple \u2014 <strong>talent is everywhere<\/strong>. The opportunity lies in creating pathways for it to shine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<strong>Is your company ready to tap into an extraordinary talent pool?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> Let\u2019s talk about how Bergen Logistics can help you build a workforce that\u2019s diverse, skilled, and ready for the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For companies in today\u2019s fast-evolving economy, talent is the single most important competitive advantage. But here\u2019s the challenge: some of the brightest minds are being overlooked. According to non-profit Spectrum Works, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face staggering unemployment rates \u2014 nearly 85% \u2014 despite having skills, education, and the drive to excel. This&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/empowering-neurodiverse-talent-in-stem-why-businesses-cant-afford-to-miss-this-opportunity\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Empowering Neurodiverse Talent in STEM: Why Businesses Can\u2019t Afford to Miss This Opportunity<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":5298,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5296","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","entry"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5296","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5296"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5296\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5308,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5296\/revisions\/5308"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5298"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5296"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5296"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bergenlogistics.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5296"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}