Data Accelerator

ASA’s neuroinclusive ‘big data’ pre-employment academy

Three people seated in office chairs having a discussion in an open-plan workspace with computers.

Data Accelerator is Australia's first neuroinclusive technical training academy built specifically for ‘big data’ employment. It’s a 10-week, intensive pre-employment program from Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA) that provides job-ready data analysts with career pathways in the geospatial, digital engineering and data management professions.

Based on our highly successful Australian Government-funded WorkFoundations Program, Data Accelerator is a formal division of ASA. Corporate Australia, philanthropy and government can help contribute to its success.

Why Data Accelerator?

Australia's autistic unemployment rate sits at a staggering 34%. Thisisn’t because of a lack of skills or motivation, but because mainstreamemployment was never built for neurodivergent minds. Data Accelerator helpschange that as it’s based on ASA’s proven model of on-the-job training andwraparound supports.

How Data Accelerator works

From the first day to the first potential job offer, Data Accelerator works as follows:

1. Tailored recruitment

Sourced through trusted employment services partners, or self-referral.

2. Supported onboarding

A structured, gentle-paced and inclusive introduction to a tech office environment.

3. Technical and social training

Hands-on geospatial, digital engineering and workplace skills.

4. Employment pathways

After 10 weeks, graduates have an employment outcome.

Participants undertake real-world work experience in the geospatial and digital engineering fields. Day-to-day, that means working on live client projects, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software such as ArcGIS Pro to work on important data such as road networks and land tenure, and using digital engineering design software such as 12d, Civil3D, Revit and AutoCAD for critical infrastructure such as rail and energy projects. Find out more details in our blog post.

Portrait of a man, Sean, with short dark hair wearing a black polo shirt, smiling slightly against a white background.
“The technical training was great. The workplace skills helped me gain confidence, and the work environment was very supportive. I really enjoy this type of work; it hasn’t felt like a job! This program allowed me to enter an industry I am interested in and educated for. ASA is also a great example of what an inclusive workplace should be like."
Sean, former WorkFoundations participant, now an ASA Junior Data Analyst

What Data Accelerator graduates gain

Every graduate leaves with:

An ASA Data Accelerator certificate, spanning Workplace Readiness, Technical Skills, and Neuroinclusion & Self

A nationally recognised Certificate II in Workplace Skills (BSB20120)

A comprehensive transition plan to achieve genuine employment outcomes

Every graduate also has an employment pathway:

Join ASA as a Junior Data Analyst

Join an ASA employment partner

Employment agency support for extended training or job opportunities

Sponsoring a Data Accelerator placement

Flyer for ASA's Data Accelerator launching digital careers for young neurodivergent people.

Organisations can also help ASA create social impact by sponsoring a Data Accelerator position. This funds one person's journey from long-term unemployment into a professional STEM career, while building your organisation's ‘big data’ talent pipeline.

Interested in learning more?

Download our flyer.
Download

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Data Accelerator?

Data Accelerator is ASA's 10-week intensive pre-employment academy for young neurodivergent adults facing employment barriers who seek professional workplace experiences and careers in geospatial or digital engineering.

Who can take part and where does it happen?

Young autistic and neurodivergent adults aged 18 and over. Sessions occur at ASA offices.

When does Data Accelerator run?

There are multiple cohort intakes per year, running 6 hours per day, up to 3 days per week for 10 weeks. Applications from candidates are welcome at any time through our careers team.

What does Data Accelerator actually cover?

Hands-on technical experience in the geospatial and digital engineering fields in a real-world project environment, plus a professional-readiness curriculum covering neuroinclusive elements of workplace communication, executive functioning, advocating and managing sensory needs at work, digital literacy, professional boundaries, teamwork, and interview techniques.

What qualifications do Data Accelerator graduates gain?

The Data Accelerator certification, undertaken at ASA's offices, develops Workplace Readiness, Technical Skills and Neuroinclusion and Self, generating the following:

ASA Data Accelerator completion certificate:

  • Acknowledging and Applying Workplace Policies
  • Fundamentals of Working with Data
  • Geospatial Technologies Fundamentals
  • GIS Application across Real World Projects
  • Executive Functioning at Work
  • Neuroinclusive Communication
  • Self Advocacy at Work
  • Recognising Workplace Support and Boundaries
  • Learning Reflection and Career Transition

Certificate of completion BSB20120 Cert II in Workplace Skills

Core units

  • BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
  • BSBOPS201 Work effectively in business environments
  • BSBPEF202 Plan and apply time management
  • BSBSUS211 Participate in sustainable work practices
  • BSBWHS211 Contribute to the health and safety of self and others

Elective units

  • BSBTEC201 Use business software applications
  • BSBPEF302 Develop self-awareness
  • BSBTWK201 Work effectively with others
  • BSBCRT201 Develop and apply thinking and problem-solving skills
  • BSBPEF101 Plan and prepare for work readiness

Are Data Accelerator graduates guaranteed a job after the program?

No. However, graduates can apply for a job directly at ASA, or be supported into other training and employment pathways, including a comprehensive transition plan.

How can an organisation get involved and what's in it for them?

Organisations can support ASA's mission by sponsoring a Data Accelerator placement. You'll help us create social impact while meeting social procurement and ESG targets, as well as economic impact by helping transition people from welfare into tax-paying careers. You also source a previously untapped talent pipeline and access to skilled data analysts. Plus, you'll position your brand as an inclusive employer.

How do I register interest in Data Accelerator?

Participants: careers@asanalytics.com.au or via your employment service provider

Sponsors: marketing@asanalytics.com.au