Why the Australian Defence Organization Is Recruiting Cyber Analysts on the Autism Spectrum

In the face of growing cybersecurity threats, the Australian Defence Organization (ADO) recently launched a project called the “Dandelion Program” to recruit talent from non-traditional sources. Specifically, they have achieved significant success recruiting people on the autism spectrum, who may otherwise struggle with getting and keeping jobs. The ADO found that despite some of their social challenges and eccentricities, these populations offered top-notch skillsets, making them a valuable — and often under-appreciated — resource for technical hiring.