STEELEVILLE – Gilster-Mary Lee celebrated its achievement in becoming the first employer in the nation to receive the Spectrum Certified® designation for its work in employing individuals with Autism and other Neurodiversities Tuesday at its Steeleville, Illinois plant.
Stannum Core Solutions, a leading agency specializing in neurodiverse workforce strategies, presented this first-of-its-kind certification during a ceremony culminating with National Disability Employment Awareness Month and the kickoff of Manufacturing Month in Illinois.
Through the Spectrum Certified® model, Gilster-Mary Lee has expanded talent pipelines, enhanced productivity, and lowered the average age of their manufacturing workforce. This initiative has offered competitive career pathways for local neurodivergent job seekers who have historically faced major barriers to employment.
The Spectrum Certified® status reflects both Gilster-Mary Lee’s commitment to a neurodiverse work environment and the unique contributions of neurodivergent workers, who have proved to be as consistent, productive, and accurate as their neurotypical peers.