ArcBest Partners with Integrate to Advance Neurodiversity in its Workforce

FORT SMITH, Ark., Oct. 20, 2022

FORT SMITH, Ark., Oct. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ArcBest^® (Nasdaq: ARCB), a leader in supply chain logistics, today announced a new partnership with Integrate Autism Employment Advisors — a non-profit organization that collaborates with companies to identify, recruit and retain professionals on the autism spectrum — to foster a neuroinclusive workforce and continue attracting the best talent with unique skill sets. ArcBest is Integrate's first full-scale hiring program partner in the logistics industry. This partnership demonstrates ArcBest's commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to create a workplace where we embrace and encourage diverse experiences and perspectives.

"Our people are at the heart of our success, and we care about attracting, hiring and retaining the right people for the right jobs — including those who are on the autism spectrum," said Erin Gattis, ArcBest's chief human resources officer. "Our partnership with Integrate is a step in the right direction to continue learning about workplace neurodiversity so that we can create a more inclusive working environment where all individuals can succeed. We hope our efforts will encourage others in the industry to do the same."  

According to Integrate, approximately 35 percent of individuals on the autism spectrum go to college, but the current under/unemployment rate for this population is between 75 percent and 85 percent. ArcBest has set an initial goal to hire five employees through the Integrate program in 2023.

This partnership also serves as a foundation for ArcBest to review and enhance its job descriptions and existing recruiting, interviewing, hiring and retaining processes — ensuring they are autism-friendly and supportive of all current and new neurodivergent employees.

"When it comes to the workplace, job descriptions are often the first barrier to entry," said Tracy Powell-Rudy, vice president of corporate engagement at Integrate. "For example, entry-level descriptions that call for excellent oral and communication skills or leadership potential often put off potential applicants who may struggle with interpersonal skills. Many on the spectrum often take things literally so that if they don't have one skill out of 10 listed in a job post, they won't apply, thinking themselves unqualified. Integrate works with employers to craft neuroinclusive job descriptions so qualified neurodivergent candidates will not self-select out of applying."