ASML and others recognize the potential of talent with autism
Although autism brings challenges, it sometimes also offers unique advantages in the tech world.
Published on April 2, 2025
Team IO+ selects and features the most important news stories on innovation and technology, carefully curated by our editors.
Today is World Autism Awareness Day, an important moment to raise awareness of autism. Although autism can bring challenges, it sometimes also offers unique advantages in the tech world. For example, people with autism can excel in pattern recognition, attention to detail, and analytical thinking. Leading companies such as ASML embrace these qualities. They recognize the value of neurodiversity within their organization.
Albert Einstein and Elon Musk
Relying on routines, difficulty with social interactions, sensitivity to sounds: autism can be a major challenge in daily life. But it can also bring unique advantages that are particularly useful, for example, in the tech industry and science. Icons such as Albert Einstein and Elon Musk are often mentioned as examples. Both are (possibly) autistic, and they have managed to turn their peculiarities into groundbreaking ideas.
Scientific research into autism
A study conducted by the recruitment agency Auticon estimated that the prevalence of autism in the technology sector is around 2-3%. This is considerably higher than the estimated 1% prevalence in the general population.
Studies show that people with autism spectrum disorders often excel in creative processes, particularly when it comes to original linguistic and figurative tasks. This can result in unconventional solutions.
People with autism also sometimes have a strong focus on specific interests. This selective interest can lead them to delve intensively into a particular subject. This not only ensures a high degree of expertise but also exceptional concentration during their work—which can result in groundbreaking insights and innovations.
ASML embraces neurodiversity
A few years ago, ASML published a message expressing its appreciation for neurodiversity within the organization. With the message “Not everyone at ASML thinks the same way, and we're proud of it”, the company emphasized that it embraces difference.
A good example is Arnout Nederpelt, a business analyst at ASML who has autism. After years of struggling to find work, he found his place within the company. He has now been working there for more than a decade.
Unique perspectives
Neurodiversity encompasses various neurological variations, such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Each brain has unique characteristics, challenges, and talents. People with neurodiversity sometimes think differently. In the tech world, that can be very valuable. Unique perspectives ultimately contribute to technological progress in the world.
