Employee Profile: David Hummel, Administrative assistant

The autistic adult profiled is part of Autism Speaks public service announcement promoting Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN).

David is an administrative assistant at the Kinney Center for Autism and Support at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, PA. He has six months experience as one of the lead points of contact for all visitors, providing quality assistance to adults and children served at the Center and the campus population who use it. Additionally, he helps campus employees with Workday, an AI-first platform for HR and finance. 

He credits his autism for giving him a sensibility to appreciate unique perspectives and to welcome and nurture discussions with people of differing backgrounds, abilities and dispositions.

Here, David shares his employment journey and what has helped and can help him in the workplace to fully utilize his strengths and contribute to his team’s success.

Employment goals

My goal is to always enjoy full-time employment in a community that supports and accepts me for who I am with my autism. I also have a goal to get a Masters degree, field to be determined.

Employment history

I am a registered behavior technician who worked one-on-one with autistic individuals and their families in schools, daycares, and clinics. My alma mater called and asked me to return to serve the students and faculty/staff at SJU.  Previously, I worked as a produce clerk at a local grocery store.

Interviews are nerve-wracking and anxiety-filled for me. I would benefit from having interview questions ahead of time.

Accommodations and modifications in the workplace

When I read job postings, one thing that confuses me is obscure language that does not clearly state what is expected of me.

Employer resources: Find out how Autism Speaks Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN) can help you optimize your job descriptions and interview process to increase your visibility among those with disabilities, including autism. Read how WIN helped solve a staffing shortage in Georgia's school cafeterias.

Clear expectations, honest communication and open feedback would help me better understand what the job requires of me.

Interviews are nerve-wracking and anxiety-filled for me. I would benefit from having interview questions ahead of time. As well I would appreciate ideas on how I can further grow myself in a position to make sure my interviewer and I are communicating effectively and aware of my long-term goals within a role.

Job seeker resource: Learn strategies including common questions you can ask to make the most out of an interview in Autism Speaks Employment Tool Kit. 

In my job, one challenge I face due to my autism is working on numerous projects without being adequately supported or informed. One simple modification made was being provided assistance with new and unknown projects. I am allowed to ask questions and learn as much as I can about different items and processes so I understand a project completely and how I fit into it. Learning about roles outside of my own helps me understand my job.

Skills and interests